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sexual health info
- sex and the law
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- sex and safety
- sexually transmissible infections (STIs & BBVs)
- what are STIs and BBVs?
- bacterial vaginosis
- chlamydia
- genital herpes
- genital warts (HPV)
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- HIV/AIDS
- molluscum contagiosum
- mycoplasma genitalium
- pubic lice and scabies
- syphilis
- trichomoniasis
- vaginal discharge
- contraception
- frequently asked questions
Hepatitis C
The following are some facts you should know about hepatitis C:
- Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver and can cause serious damage.
- It's not classified as a sexually transmissible infection (STI) because it's not easily spread by sexual contact.
- It's spread by blood, meaning sharing needles or being tattooed with used needles puts you at risk.
- There is a very small risk that a mother with hepatitis C can pass the infection on to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Breastfeeding is not considered a risk unless the mother has cracked and bleeding nipples.
- People who had a blood transfusion before 1990 might also be at risk.
- Hepatitis C is diagnosed by having a blood test.
- Some people will clear the virus from their body naturally. If you don't, treatment is available.
- To avoid infection, never share needles, razors, toothbrushes or anything that comes into contact with blood.
- No vaccination is available for hepatitis C.
For more information, read Melbourne Sexual Health Centre's fact sheet on hepatitis C.