Answer:

Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), can be transmitted from husband to wife through blood contact, such as exposure to blood or open wounds. Unprotected sex (without using a condom) is a common route of transmission. The husband's semen, if he has hepatitis B, contains HBV, which can enter the wife's body through direct contact with the genital mucosa during intercourse. The risk increases if the wife has minor skin or mucosal injuries, such as scratches or tears, making it easier for the virus to enter the bloodstream and cause infection.

Hepatitis B can also spread from husband to wife through sharing personal items like razors, nail clippers, combs, and toothbrushes. If these items are contaminated with the husband's blood containing HBV and the wife uses them, the risk of transmission is very high.

Doctor Thanh advises a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Thanh advises a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The risk of hepatitis B transmission from your husband to you depends on several factors, including when your husband's illness was discovered, the length of time you've lived together, whether safe sex practices were used, and whether you have been vaccinated. The likelihood of transmission is higher if you haven't received the hepatitis B vaccine and your body lacks protective antibodies. You should get tested to check and receive timely treatment if infected. If you haven't been infected, you should get the hepatitis B vaccine (if you don't have HBV antibodies) for prevention.

You and your husband should use condoms during intercourse. Absolutely avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes and nail clippers to prevent contact with blood or bodily fluids containing the virus. You and other family members should have regular health checkups to monitor liver function and antibody levels (if vaccinated). Antibody levels can decrease over time, so regular checkups help the doctor determine if a booster shot is necessary.

Dr. Hoang Dinh Thanh

Department of Gastroenterology - Hepatology - Pancreatology

Center for Endoscopy and Endoscopic Gastrointestinal Surgery

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM