Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a serious disease caused by a virus known as hepatitis B virus (HBV). It ranges in severity from a mild illness, lasting a few weeks (acute), to a serious long-term (chronic) illness. This virus attacks the liver and can cause a lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. Unlike the HIV, HBV can live on a dry surface for at least 7 days. According to the CDC , An estimated 800,000–1.4 million persons in the United States have chronic HBV infection. In 2001 there were 71,000 new infections diagnosed with the highest rate of disease in 20-49 year-olds.
Hepatitis B under a microscope
credits: University of SC
How do I get this STD?
This STD is spread during vaginal, anal, and oral sex with someone who has Hepatitis B. They may not look or feel sick. They will not have any sores or rashes on their sex organs.
The virus can be spread by infected body fluids through cuts on the skin and through the mucous membranes. The virus has been found in tears, stomach juices, saliva, semen and urine.
It can also be spread by piercings, tattoos, and other body art that is done with needles or sharp objects that are shared without proper cleaning.
More Info on Body Art...
HBV is not spread through food or water, sharing eating utensils, breastfeeding, hugging, kissing, hand holding, coughing, or sneezing.
What should I watch for?
Symptoms show up 1 - 9 months after contact with the Hepatitis B virus.
- Many people with Hepatitis B have no symptoms at all or very mild symptoms that might be confused with the flu.
- You might have symptoms such as mild fever, joint pain, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and nausea.
- A few people develop jaundice (a yellowish tint to their skin and the white part of their eyes).
- Your urine also may change colors to become a very dark yellow-brownish color.
What happens if I don't get treated?
You can give your partner Hepatitis B.
Most infections will run its course and result in you becoming immune to the disease. This immunity protects you from further Hepatitis B infections.
As a result of the infection, some people will develop cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure, liver cancer, and die.
A mother with Hepatitis B can give it to her baby during the pregnancy. These babies generally become chronic carriers of the virus and can infect others.
How can I prevent it?
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs.
Get the Hepatitis B vaccine. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all infants, older children and adolescents who were not vaccinated previously, and adults at risk for HBV infection.
Use a new latex condom (rubber) with a water-based lubricant every time you have sex.
Do not share anything with an infected person's blood on it (toothbrushes, razors, needles of any kind, nail clippers, body piercing instruments!)
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Read below for more ways you can protect yourself...
ANSWER:
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs. There is really no way to have a sexual relationship with another person that does not put you at risk for STDs. Ideally you should wait to have sex until you are ready for a permanent relationship with just one person and when they are equally committed to this relationship and to only having sex with you. Even in this situation, there is a risk of STDs if you or your partner has had other sexual relationships prior to this relationship.
If you are having sex now using a latex condom is your first line of defense. Use a new condom every time you have sex. Many teens are embarrassed to buy condoms, but if you are old enough to have sex, you are old enough to act responsibly. Don't let embarrassment prevent you from taking care of yourself and your partner.
Think ahead and always be prepared!
More Ways to Protect Yourself if You are Having Sex Now:
- Have sex only with one partner who is not infected and is only having sex with you.
- Talk with your partner about past sex partners and about any needle drug use.
- Don't have sex with someone who you think might have a STD.
- Before you have sex, look closely at your partner for any signs of STD. If you see anything you are worried about, don't have sex!
- Use a latex condom (rubber) for oral and anal sex. Use an unlubricated condom for oral sex. Males and females should both carry protection.
- In addition to condoms, use birth control foam, cream, or jelly. These kill many STD germs.
- Urinate immediately after sex - this may help remove harmful germs from the urinary tract.
- Avoid using alcohol or drugs that can impair your judgment, making you more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors.
- Get checked for STDs every time you have a health exam if you have had sex. Remember not all STDs have symptoms!
- Know the symptoms of STDs. If you notice a symptom, go see a doctor.
- If you have a STD, your partner must get treated. Don't have sex until your treatment is complete.
The Teen Resource website is funded through the Georgia Department of Community Health - Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program.