Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Oral Sex or Kissing?

Can hepatitis C be transmitted through sexual activities such as oral sex or kissing?

Hello, Director Chen.
I would like to ask if Hepatitis C can be transmitted through saliva and fluid exchange.
A male who is a Hepatitis C carrier performed oral sex on a female (who does not have Hepatitis C).
Is there a chance that the female could contract Hepatitis C? Similarly, if the male carrier kissed the female (French kiss), could the female become infected with Hepatitis C? Thank you for your guidance.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/16

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Although Hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual contact, the probability is less than 5%, so the risk of transmission is low.
Please don't worry too much.
Additionally, it is recommended that Hepatitis C patients receive antiviral treatment to reduce the chance of transmitting the virus to others.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/01/16

More Info

Hepatitis C (HCV) is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, and its transmission through sexual activity, including oral sex and kissing, is considered to be relatively low. The risk of transmission through sexual contact is estimated to be less than 5%, which indicates that while it is possible, it is not common.
When it comes to oral sex, the risk of transmitting Hepatitis C from a male carrier to a female partner is generally low, especially if there are no open sores or bleeding gums involved. The virus is present in the blood and can be found in lower concentrations in other bodily fluids, including saliva. However, the concentration of the virus in saliva is significantly lower than in blood, making transmission through kissing or oral sex less likely. In the scenario you described, where a male Hepatitis C carrier performed oral sex on a female partner without any blood exposure, the risk of transmission remains low.
Kissing, particularly closed-mouth kissing or gentle kissing without any open wounds, poses an even lower risk for Hepatitis C transmission. The presence of saliva does not typically facilitate the transmission of the virus unless there are cuts or sores in the mouth that could allow for blood exchange. Therefore, if both partners are healthy and there are no injuries in the oral cavity, the likelihood of transmission through kissing is minimal.

It's important to note that while Hepatitis C is not easily transmitted through sexual activity, individuals with Hepatitis C should still take precautions to minimize any potential risk. This includes discussing their condition with sexual partners, using protection such as condoms, and considering antiviral treatment to reduce the viral load, which can further decrease the risk of transmission.

In summary, while Hepatitis C can theoretically be transmitted through oral sex and kissing, the actual risk is quite low, especially in the absence of blood exposure. If there are concerns about potential exposure or infection, it is advisable for the female partner to undergo testing for Hepatitis C, as well as other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), to ensure her health and peace of mind. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers can help manage any risks associated with Hepatitis C and other infections.

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