Hepatitis C and pregnancy Does it affect fertility and chances of conceiving

The answer is not simple because the disease has different types, and its effects vary from one case to another. Hepatitis B and C can cause significant concern for both men and women thinking about having children, especially if they have just discovered the infection or are planning for pregnancy. In this article from , we will explore whether the disease can actually prevent pregnancy or reduce fertility chances. Is there a risk to the fetus? And what are the important tips to ensure a safe pregnancy with the virus? Stay with us for all the details.

Can Hepatitis C be transmitted through intimate relations?
Hepatitis C is not one of the diseases that is easily transmitted through sexual contact, but in some cases, transmission can occur, especially if the relationship is violent or involves direct blood contact. The likelihood of infection is higher among people with multiple sexual partners or in relationships between men. However, in general, the transmission of Hepatitis C through sex is considered rare compared to other methods, such as blood transfusions or the use of contaminated tools.

Does marital intimacy affect the liver?
On the contrary, marital intimacy is not only harmless to the liver but can also be beneficial from both a psychological and physical standpoint. It helps reduce stress and improves mood, which in turn helps the entire body, including the liver, function better.

Can a liver patient infect their partner?
For Hepatitis B, it is indeed contagious through sexual relations as it spreads via blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Therefore, it is very important for the partner to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine before marriage or before starting an intimate relationship. It’s also important to maintain hygiene and use protection during intimacy, especially if the infected partner is still carrying the virus.

Is it possible to marry someone with Hepatitis?
Yes, it is very possible to marry someone with either Hepatitis B or C, but the other partner should be fully aware of all the details, take the required vaccinations, and follow up with a doctor. In the case of Hepatitis B, if the infection is acute, the body can get rid of it, but if it's chronic, it requires continuous monitoring. However, marriage is still possible as long as there is awareness and commitment to preventive measures.

Is there a connection between the liver and sex?
Yes, the liver plays a major role in sexual health. When the liver is damaged, as in cases of cirrhosis or chronic inflammation, it can lead to erectile dysfunction or a decrease in sexual desire in men. This happens because the liver regulates hormone balance and detoxifies the body. Any disruption in its function can affect sexual life, but treatment and regular monitoring by a doctor can improve the situation.

Can Hepatitis B be transmitted through kissing?
No, Hepatitis B is not transmitted through kissing or saliva, except in very rare cases when there are mouth wounds or bleeding. In general, the virus is not spread through touching or normal kissing, which reassures couples and reduces anxiety.

Can my husband get infected if I have Hepatitis B?
Yes, it is possible, but prevention is simple and guaranteed. If one spouse has Hepatitis B, the other should receive three doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, which offers full protection. After that, they can live their married life normally without fear of transmission.

Can Hepatitis B be transmitted through sexual intercourse?
Yes, Hepatitis B is transmitted through intimate relations because it is present in blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Therefore, if one partner is infected, the other must get vaccinated, and safe practices should be followed, especially until immunity is fully developed after the doses.

How long can a person with Hepatitis B live?
This varies from one person to another depending on their health condition and treatment. If the disease is diagnosed early and the patient receives proper treatment, they can live a normal life. However, if treatment is delayed or liver cirrhosis occurs, complications like liver cancer can develop, and the life expectancy may decrease. Regular medical follow-up is crucial.

Which is more dangerous: Hepatitis B or C?
In fact, Hepatitis B is more dangerous than Hepatitis C because it is more contagious and spreads more easily, whether through sex, blood, or from mother to child. Hepatitis B can also cause serious complications like liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, and it is considered more dangerous than HIV in terms of ease of transmission.

Can a man with Hepatitis B have a natural pregnancy?
A husband's Hepatitis B infection can affect fertility as it impacts sperm count and motility, as well as increases oxidative stress in the body. However, this does not mean that the man is infertile. Pregnancy is still possible, but the chances may be slightly reduced.

Can the wife or fetus get infected?
Yes, if a natural pregnancy occurs and ejaculation happens inside the uterus, there is a high chance that the infection can be transmitted to the wife and then to the fetus during birth. For this reason, many doctors recommend using methods like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or assisted reproduction to reduce the chances of transmission.

Does marital intimacy get affected?
Definitely. Couples need to take many precautions to prevent virus transmission, such as consistently using condoms, avoiding oral or anal sex, and minimizing direct contact with saliva. All of these factors can make intimacy less comfortable than before, which affects the satisfaction of both partners.

Psychological effects on the couple
Constantly thinking about and fearing the infection affects the psychological well-being of both partners. The husband may feel weak or lose confidence, while the wife may experience frustration or stress, impacting their emotional relationship.

Does it affect infertility treatment?
Yes, Hepatitis B affects the immune system, which can create complications during infertility treatment, especially if the woman is on immune-suppressing medications during procedures like egg retrieval or fertilization. This increases the risk of infection, both for her and the fetus later on.

Can Hepatitis C be transmitted through sex?
In short: Yes, but at a low probability.
Hepatitis C is not commonly found in semen, saliva, or vaginal fluids, meaning sexual transmission is not widespread. However, it is possible in certain situations, especially if there is direct blood contact.

When does the risk of transmitting Hepatitis C through sex increase?

1. Anal sex without a condom:
   Anal sex can cause small tears around the anus, increasing the chance of virus transmission if one partner is infected. The risk is higher among men who have sex with men but can occur between any partners if condoms are not used.

2. Violent sexual activity:
   If the sexual activity is rough, whether vaginal or anal, it can cause small tears or bleeding, increasing the opportunity for the virus to spread.

3. During menstruation:
   If a woman has Hepatitis C and engages in sexual intercourse during her menstrual period without a condom, the virus can be transmitted through menstrual blood.

Sexual practices that can increase the risk of infection:

• Sharing sex toys, especially those used anally or during menstruation without proper cleaning.

• Fingering or hand contact that causes cuts or bleeding, which could transmit the virus.

• Not using condoms consistently, leaving the body exposed to blood or fluids that could carry the virus.

Does Hepatitis B affect fertility and pregnancy?
In short, Hepatitis B does not prevent pregnancy, but it can slightly reduce the chances of conception, particularly in men.
Although the virus does not directly affect fertility, studies have shown that it can cause issues that affect sperm quality, thus reducing the likelihood of natural pregnancy.

1. Low sperm count:
   A 2010 study found that men with Hepatitis B suffered from low sperm count and abnormal sperm shape, which naturally reduces the chances of conception.

2. Poor motility:
   One of the main causes of delayed pregnancy in men is low sperm motility, and this occurs with Hepatitis B infection. Another study confirmed that Hepatitis B affects sperm’s ability to swim and fertilize, especially during assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

3. Oxidative stress and its impact on sperm:
   The virus increases oxidative stress, which means there’s an imbalance in antioxidants in the body. This affects the sperm DNA, weakening it or causing it to die quickly, reducing fertility efficiency.

Can Pregnancy Occur? And What Are the Risks?

Yes, pregnancy can happen naturally, but there is a risk of transmitting the infection to the wife if the relationship is unprotected. The virus can also be passed to the baby during birth.

If the wife has not received the Hepatitis B vaccine (the three doses), there is a significant risk of transmitting the virus if the sexual relationship happens without a condom.

How to Protect the Wife and the Baby During Pregnancy?

If the husband is infected and the wife wants to get pregnant, it’s best to turn to assisted reproductive technologies such as:

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

These methods protect the wife from contracting the infection and also allow monitoring the baby from the very beginning.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Partner from Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C affects millions of people worldwide and is a dangerous viral disease that can be transmitted through blood and, sometimes, through sexual contact. Therefore, it’s very important to know how to protect yourself and ensure your partner's safety.

Important Steps to Protect Yourself During Sexual Intercourse:

1. Talk to Your Doctor:
   If you're thinking about getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases, ask your doctor to check for Hepatitis C.

   Discuss your sexual relationship with the doctor, especially if it includes risky practices like anal or rough sex.

2. Talk Openly with Your Partner:
   Ask your partner if they’ve been recently tested.

   Know their health history regarding sexually transmitted diseases.

3. Use Condoms:
   Condoms are a strong protective method, especially if the sexual relationship involves rough sex, occurs during menstruation, or with multiple partners.

4. Treat Any Sexually Transmitted Disease:
   If you discover that you have Hepatitis C or any other disease, it’s crucial to start treatment immediately under medical supervision.

Daily Prevention Methods for Hepatitis C:

• Do Not Share Needles or Injection Tools:
  Sharing needles is the most dangerous way to transmit the virus, whether it’s for drug use or even regular injections.

• Ensure the Tattoo or Piercing Place is Clean:
  The place should use sterilized tools and new needles for each person.

• Do Not Share Personal Items:
  Avoid sharing toothbrushes, razors, nail clippers, etc., as any small amount of blood can transfer the virus.

• Be Careful When Contacting Blood:
  If you’re helping someone who is bleeding, wear medical gloves and clean the area well with disinfectant afterward.

My Husband Has Hepatitis B… How Should I Act?

When you find out that your husband has Hepatitis B, it's natural to feel anxious and worried. However, with the right information and actions, you can protect yourself, your children, and support your husband in his treatment journey.

Steps You Need to Take to Protect Yourself and Your Family:

1. Get Regular Check-ups for You and Your Children:
   It's important to have blood tests to ensure that the infection hasn't spread to you or any of your children. Repeat the tests periodically as per your doctor's instructions to stay reassured.

2. Get Vaccinated Against the Virus:
   If you haven’t received the Hepatitis B vaccine before, it’s crucial to get vaccinated now. You should also vaccinate your children, even if they are young, as the vaccine provides significant protection against the infection.

3. Use a Condom During Intimate Relations:
   Sexual intercourse is one way the virus can be transmitted, so it’s essential to always use a condom, especially if your partner is not yet on treatment or the virus is still active in their body.

4. Do Not Share Personal Items:
   Avoid using the same razor, toothbrush, or nail clippers as your partner. Anything that could have a small amount of blood on it, even if it's not visible, can transmit the virus.

5. Be Supportive of Your Husband:
   This disease has a significant psychological impact on the patient, making them anxious about their future and life. Your presence and support will make their treatment journey easier and quicker.

When Should You Get a Hepatitis C Test?
If your husband is infected, it’s crucial to be aware of your own health condition. The test is not scary, but it helps protect you and allows you to take preventive measures early. Get tested if:

• You've ever used needles or injections for medications.

• You have any liver problems or enzyme issues.

• You’ve ever been pricked by a needle or sharp object at work.

• You've received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992.

• You have HIV.

• Or simply, if you're over 18, it’s recommended to take the test at least once in your life.

What Are the Available Treatments if the Hepatitis C Test Comes Back Positive?
If you’ve taken the test and it shows that you're infected with Hepatitis C, don’t worry! Medicine has advanced significantly, and there are effective and safe treatments that can help cure the virus completely.

Primary Treatment: Direct-Acting Antiviral Drugs (DAAs)
These drugs target the virus itself, preventing it from replicating. The cure rate with them is up to 95% in just 8 to 12 weeks!

Side effects are minimal, but if you experience dizziness or vision problems, make sure to inform your doctor immediately.

Why You Should Start Treatment Early:
The earlier you start, the better you protect your liver from damage. Even if the disease is at an advanced stage, there is still a significant chance of recovery.

Medical Follow-up is Essential:
Your healthcare team will ask you to take additional tests, such as:

• HIV test.

• Hepatitis B test.

• Liver function tests to ensure there is no cirrhosis or other issues.

If you have cirrhosis, you will have a tailored treatment plan that includes:

• Ongoing liver monitoring.

• Additional medications to reduce inflammation.

• Lifestyle changes (such as completely avoiding alcohol).

Live Healthier During Treatment:
For the treatment to be effective, try:

• Following a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• Exercising regularly to strengthen your immune system.

• Avoiding drugs or shared needles.

• Drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep.

Mental Health is Important Too:
If you’re feeling mentally exhausted or stressed, don’t hesitate to seek psychological support. Speaking to a specialist or joining support sessions can help you stay mentally strong and navigate this phase successfully.

How to Prevent Hepatitis C Infection?
Although there is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C, there are effective steps you can take to protect yourself from infection.

1. Avoid Blood Contact:
   Blood is the main route of transmission for the virus, so you should be cautious about avoiding contact with someone’s blood, especially if you know they’re infected.

   If you work in healthcare, make sure to wear appropriate personal protective equipment to safeguard yourself from exposure to the virus.

2. Use Personal Tools Individually:
   Avoid sharing needles or any other sharp objects with others, especially if you inject drugs intravenously, as this is one of the primary ways the virus spreads.

   If you’re struggling with drug addiction, seek professional help, as getting support can significantly reduce the risks.

3. Safe Sexual Practices:
   Use a condom during sex, especially if you’re unsure of your partner’s health status. Latex condoms and recommended lubricants can reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

4. Breastfeeding:
   If you have Hepatitis C and are a mother, you can breastfeed your child safely as long as your nipples aren’t cracked or bleeding. If they are cracked or bleeding, it’s best to avoid breastfeeding to prevent transmitting the virus to your child.

5. Consult a Doctor When Needed:
   If you have any concerns about the safety of an activity or fear of contracting the virus, consult a healthcare specialist. The doctor will help you take the right steps and guide you toward the best preventive measures.

The treating doctor in the case of Hepatitis C is typically a Hepatologist or a Gastroenterologist specializing in liver diseases. These doctors are experts in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the liver, including all types of Hepatitis.In some cases, the treating doctor may collaborate with Infectious Disease Specialists if the situation requires specialized intervention. Treatment may include antiviral medications, monitoring the liver’s health, and providing medical guidance on how to prevent and manage the disease.If there are any complications, such as liver cirrhosis or psychological effects, it may be necessary to consult other specialists, such as Psychiatrists or Nutritionists, to provide comprehensive support.