Can HBV-infected Individuals Transmit the Virus to Their Partners During Sexual Intercourse?

Sexual intercourse between individuals where one has hepatitis B can lead to transmission, but the risk of transmission depends on viral load, the use of protective measures, and whether the partner has immunity. The key to preventing transmission is to adopt strict protective measures, such as correctly using condoms and ensuring that the partner is timely vaccinated against hepatitis B.

1. Transmission Routes of Hepatitis B and Risks in Sexual Relationships: Hepatitis B virus is primarily transmitted through blood, mother-to-child, and sexual contact. Therefore, sexual intercourse is one of the possible routes for hepatitis B virus transmission. The risk is higher especially in the absence of protective measures, if the infected partner has a high viral load, such as a high HBV DNA level in the blood, or has genital ulcers, injuries, etc. The more unprotected sexual contacts occur, the higher the risk.

2. How to Effectively Reduce Transmission Risk Between Spouses: The uninfected partner should undergo the full hepatitis B vaccination series as soon as possible. The three-dose hepatitis B vaccination series typically provides over 95% protection, but it is necessary to confirm that the antibody titer reaches the protective level of anti-HBs ≥ 10mIU/mL. Using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual intercourse can effectively block virus transmission. Hepatitis B virus carriers should avoid violent sexual behavior or any behavior that causes genital tract damage during sexual intercourse, as damaged areas may increase the probability of virus transmission.

3. Precautions and Management for Hepatitis B Patients: Hepatitis B patients should regularly undergo tests including liver function, HBV DNA quantification, and hepatitis B two-and-a-half tests to assess their infectivity and liver health status. If viral replication is active or liver damage has occurred, patients can consider antiviral treatment such as nucleoside drugs like entecavir and tenofovir after being assessed by a doctor. Antiviral treatment not only protects the liver but also reduces the hepatitis B virus load, thereby lowering the risk of sexual transmission. Meanwhile, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid alcohol consumption, and protect liver health. With protection during sexual intercourse and vaccination completion by the partner, the risk of hepatitis B transmission can be significantly reduced.

Maintaining good virus management and health status is not only beneficial for hepatitis B patients themselves but also provides greater protection for family members. It is recommended that both spouses jointly develop protection strategies under the guidance of professional doctors.