Hepatitis C is not generally spread through sex, however transmission can occur if blood is involved. Hepatitis B can be transmitted through blood and sexual fluids.
Following these guidelines and help stop the transmission of hepatitis B and C, as well as sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrheae, genital herpes and chlamydia.
1) ALWAYS use condoms, latex gloves and dams where appropriate. These are all available from most chemists, from the WA AIDS Council and Family Planning WA Sexual Health Services (located at 70 Roe Street, Northbridge).
2) Use a water-based lubricant to prevent skin trauma caused by friction. This applies equally to both anal and vaginal sex.
3) If using toys, make sure they have been washed thoroughly with lukewarm or tepid soapy water beforehand. This also goes for any bondage or S&M equipment.
It is important to remember that some infections can take up to six months to be detectable in a blood test. This is the case with both hepatitis B and C, HIV takes up to three months. It is therefore possible to transmit these viruses without knowing you are infected.
For more information, contact the Information and Support line at the Hepatitis Council of WA on (08) 9328 8538 (metro) or 1800 800 070 (country).
