Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Family Planning - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Family Planning

Hello： 1. <br>If your boyfriend has antibodies against Hepatitis B, it means he has immunity and will not be infected by the Hepatitis B virus, nor will he transmit it to you. <br>2. <br>The transmission routes of Hepatitis B are： a. <br>Vertical transmission, where a mother with

Hepatitis B

My boyfriend's mother has hepatitis B, and all three of her children have it as well.
My boyfriend says he has hepatitis B antibodies.
Can my boyfriend transmit hepatitis B to me? Would it be transmitted through kissing, sexual activity, sharing food, or using the same utensils? If we have dinner with my family, could they get infected? If we get married, will we pass it on to our children? Should we avoid having children altogether? Please advise.
Thank you!

Ai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/09

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
If your boyfriend has antibodies against Hepatitis B, it means he has immunity and will not be infected by the Hepatitis B virus, nor will he transmit it to you.
2.
The transmission routes of Hepatitis B are: a.
Vertical transmission, where a mother with Hepatitis B can transmit the virus to her newborn; however, all newborns are now required to receive the vaccine, significantly reducing the chances of infection.
b.
Horizontal transmission occurs through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of a carrier, such as through blood transfusions, injections, or intimate relationships.
Activities like tattooing, ear piercing, or sharing meals do not transmit the virus.
3.
You can also test for Hepatitis B antibodies; if you have them, you do not need to worry about infection.
If you do not have antibodies, you can receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2006/03/09

More Info

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Understanding the transmission risks associated with Hepatitis B, especially in the context of family planning and relationships, is crucial for making informed decisions.

Transmission Risks of Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, including blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. The most common modes of transmission include:
1. Vertical Transmission: This occurs when an infected mother passes the virus to her child during childbirth. This is a significant risk factor, as seen in your boyfriend's family where all three children contracted the virus from their mother.

2. Sexual Transmission: Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. If your boyfriend has Hepatitis B antibodies, it indicates that he has either been vaccinated against the virus or has cleared a past infection, which significantly reduces the risk of transmission to you.

3. Sharing Personal Items: Sharing items such as razors or toothbrushes that may have come into contact with blood can pose a risk. However, casual contact such as kissing, sharing food, or using the same utensils does not typically transmit the virus.

Your Boyfriend's Status
If your boyfriend has Hepatitis B antibodies, it suggests that he is immune to the virus. This immunity means he cannot transmit the virus to you through sexual contact or other means. However, it is essential to confirm his antibody status through blood tests, which can provide peace of mind.

Family Planning Considerations
When considering having children, it is important to understand the risks of vertical transmission. If your boyfriend is immune to Hepatitis B, the likelihood of passing the virus to your future children is significantly reduced. However, if there is any uncertainty about his immunity or if he has a chronic infection, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Recommendations
1. Vaccination: If you have not been vaccinated against Hepatitis B, it is highly recommended to get vaccinated. The vaccine is safe and effective in preventing infection.

2. Regular Screening: If you are in a relationship with someone who has a family history of Hepatitis B, regular screening for the virus is advisable. This includes testing for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies (anti-HBs).

3. Consult a Specialist: If you are considering starting a family, consulting with a healthcare provider who specializes in infectious diseases or maternal-fetal medicine can provide tailored advice based on your boyfriend's health status and family history.

4. Safe Practices: Continue to practice safe behaviors, such as using protection during sexual activity, to further reduce any potential risks.

Conclusion
In summary, if your boyfriend has Hepatitis B antibodies, he is unlikely to transmit the virus to you. Casual contact does not pose a risk, and with appropriate precautions and vaccinations, the risk of vertical transmission to your future children can be minimized. It is always best to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider to ensure that you have the most accurate information and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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