Very scared about Hepatitis!

Hi doctor,

I am very scared I might have Hepatitis B and C. I had one time unprotected vaginal sex with a massage parlor woman about 10 weeks ago. My questions are-

1. Am I at risk for Hepatitis B and C. If not why am I not at risk?
2. Should I get tested for Hepatitis B and C.
3. If my anxiety comes in and I want to get tested for Hepatitis B and C would 84 days (12 weeks) be enough? Or would I need to get tested again at 6 months?
4. I tested negative for HIV at 8 weeks and 5 days. What are my chances I have HIV? Should I test again?

Thanks for your help doc. as I am very worried about this issue.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

There is no signficant risk here.  I'm wondering why you are so focused on those particular infections at all.  Despite what you have apparently read, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is not sexually transmitted at all, except occasionally among men who have sex with men.  The hepatitis B virus can be sexually transmitted, but the risk is so low that testing for HBV is never done in STD clinics after particular sexual exposures.  It is wise for all people to be vaccinated against HBV, and it is a higher priority for those who are sexually active outside permanent, mutually monogamous relationships.  But no STD expert would recommend that someone be tested for HBV or HCV after a single exposure like you descirbe.

To your specific questions:

1) There are no data on the risk for any particular sexual exposure to HBV, but it is very low.  And that's if your partner is a carrier; statistically, that is unlikely.  HCV is no risk at all.

2,3) Testing is not necessary in this situation.  But if you insist, enough time has passed for accurate testing for both viruses.  In general, 6 weeks is plenty.

4) HIV testing is 100% reliable at 8 weeks.

As I said above, I don't understand your fears.  They seem quite inflated.  If having negative test results for HBV and HCV will settle your nerves, by all means get tested.  Then put the issue aside and move on.

Regards--  HHH, MD

[Prince3]

A related discussion, Hep c was started.