ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.
ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.

Hepatitis:
Fast Facts

  • Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a group of viruses.
  • There are five major types of viral hepatitis: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis E.
  • Hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are the most common types of viral hepatitis found in the United States.
  • The are vaccines available that can prevent both hepatitis A and hepatitis B.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a group of viruses—hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. When hepatitis viruses damage liver cells, scar tissue is formed and those cells can no longer function. With fewer healthy liver cells, the body begins to show symptoms ranging from mild (such as fatigue) to more severe symptoms (such as mental confusion).

Although many cases of hepatitis are not a serious threat to health, the disease can sometimes become chronic (long-lasting) and may lead to liver failure and death. In many cases, though, viral hepatitis is a self-resolving illness—meaning it goes away on its own.

Sexual activity poses a different level of risk for each type of viral hepatitis, but is most closely associated with hepatitis B. Blood transfusion, IV needle sharing, and organ transplants can also transmit hepatitis.

Click on the hepatitis types below to learn more.

Types of Hepatitis

Prevent Hepatitis A and B

Both hepatitis A and hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination. There is even a combination vaccine for both.

Learn More About STIs

More to Explore

Thumbs up to condoms

Condom Sizing

Condom Sizing: Finding the right fit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTsv3MVICPI If you have a penis, it’s likely that you’ve 1) measured your penis; 2) wondered “am I large or small?” and 3) probably worried about whether you’re large or small. Just like the people to whom they’re attached,

Couple

Sex and Relationships

Many people confuse love, commitment, and sex, or assume the three always go hand-in-hand. There are many ways to express love, and you don’t need to have sex with someone to show them you love them.

Safer sex toolbox

Your Safer Sex Toolbox

Explore ways to make sex safer and communicate with your sexual partners about your expectations and boundaries.

J. Dennis Fortenberry

Talking Birds and Bees in the 21st Century

Why are STI rates so high among young people? For insight we chatted with Dr. J. Dennis Fortenberry, a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Indiana University School of Medicine.

What is sexual health

What Is Sexual Health?

Sexual health is the ability to embrace and enjoy our sexuality throughout our lives. It is an important part of our physical and emotional health. Learn more about what being sexually healthy means.