Can hepatitis B be transmitted to a sexual partner?

HBV (hepatitis B) can be transmitted to a sexual partner.

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which can spread through sexual contact, mother-to-child transmission, and blood. Therefore, when one partner has hepatitis B, there is a high likelihood of transmitting it to the other. The virus is present in vaginal secretions and semen of infected individuals, and during intercourse, if there is damage to the mucous membranes, HBV can easily enter the body and establish infection. It is essential to use condoms and take protective measures during sex. If one partner does not have hepatitis B, they should promptly go to the hospital for testing. A positive result for hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) indicates the presence of a protective antibody; higher titers provide stronger protection, making transmission through daily contact unlikely. If the hepatitis B surface antibody test is negative, vaccination against hepatitis B can effectively prevent infection.

Generally, the higher the level of hepatitis B viral DNA in the body, the stronger the infectivity; conversely, lower levels mean weaker infectivity. Individuals who have close contact with hepatitis B patients can prevent infection as long as they have sufficient antibodies in their bodies, since hepatitis B is both preventable and treatable.

It is recommended to regularly visit the hospital to check antibody levels and receive booster vaccinations promptly if antibody levels are found to be low.