Rough sex & hep C

[tigerkate]

My husband was a Vietnam veteran who recieved 52 units of blood after his injury. He told me I couldn't catch it. In the 20 years together we had rough sex. I have recently had a blood test, and I have ammonia in my blood. My liver is failing. I want to know  the truth. Can he have given me hep C? He's dead. Can't ask him.

[SurfsideGal]

I am sorry to hear that you are ill. It is certainly possible that your husband transmitted the virus to you. When rough sex causes tearing of membranes and exchange of blood, the virus can be transmitted. In long term monogamous couples who do not engage in rough sex, it is rare to have the virus transmitted.

I am really sorry to learn that your liver is failing. People who are in liver failure may be treated in a clinical trial. Treating with some of the newer drugs can be dangerous in liver failure. Make sure you are going to a very knowledgeable physician, preferably a hepatologist. My best to you.

[sparky43]

Hi Kate,
Although sexual transmission is rare, it does happen.   Was your husband ever tested for hepatitis c?   Many Vietnam veterans were infected with Hepatitis C through blood transfusions and just exposure to others blood in combat.  You should contact your doctor and schedule a Hepatitis C test as soon as possible.   With your symptoms I find it odd that the doctor did not test you for this already.   There are now drugs that rid the body of the virus and if you have it, you would seem to be a prime candidate for them.