Hepatitis C & Oral Sex

[lisami1323]

First, let me apologize because I have posted this same excerpt in the wrong forum, so if you are reading this for a SECOND time; I am sooo very sorry!!!! This is my very first post, and I promise to get the hang of this sooner than later.  :)

Second, let me apologize in advance as I am sure this question has been asked over & over & over again.  I have found this website to be a wonderful resource, and am excited to have finally created an account and have the opportunity to be a part of this.

I am currently in a relationship, that has recently become quite serious.  He is positive for Hepatitis C and I am not.  I do however, have HSV type 2.  Now, I am well aware of the risks that are associated with engaging in unprotected sex, especially when I am undergoing an outbreak.  I also realize the risk we both purpose to each other.  The question I have is in regards to oral sex.  Me performing oral sex to him.  This is something I want to do quite badly, and I would very much prefer NOT to utilize protection.  I have read many things regarding the trace of HCV (viral load) in semen.  And how all findings have been inconclusive regarding the transmission of HCV via oral sex and the ingesting of semen.

I was just hoping that someone could possibly share their experiences, perhaps in a long term monogamous relationship and/or marriage.  My partner is in no way pressuring me, this is just something that I have wanted to do for a while, but because I am a single mother; I have been too scared even if the possibility of transmission is extremely low.

Thank you so very much for taking the time in reading my post, and I TRULY look forward to any and all responses.

[James10500]

Lucky guy

[lisami1323]

I know that the probability of transmitting HSV is MUCH greater that the transmission of HCV.  But I really want to thank you for your post.  It is insightful and I should be assessing this from all perspectives just not my own. Thank you.

[medicmommy]

Hi,
Just so you know, Hep C is carried on red blood cells. He has more to worry about contracting Herpes from you more than you do of Hep C from him. It takes infected blood finding an opening to transmit Hep C -which you may have when you have an outbreak, but unless your teeth scrape him during oral sex, you are not likely to be exposed to his blood during that time.
Think about this though. If he has active hepatitis, do you really want to risk adding another stressor to his system that could escalate the disease? Any added stresses will weaken his immune system, thus letting the Hep C's damage to his liver accelerate. A person suffering from liver failure is a horrible thing to see and experience if they are a loved one. You need to talk this over with him and let him choose as he will be the one most likely to suffer the most. There are a LOT of very thin condom products available that may reduce sensation slightly, but are worth the barrier they provide. ~MM