World Hepatitis Day is an annual public health observance dedicated to raising awareness about viral hepatitis. It is also a day for encouraging the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this infectious disease. Understanding and managing hepatitis is crucial because of the burden it causes. According to an article published by the World Health Organization, around 254 million people live with chronic hepatitis B worldwide, while around 50 million live with chronic hepatitis C. While acute hepatitis is often connected to liver issues, it can also affect men’s sexual health. Let’s learn more about the connection between hepatitis and sexual health.
Hepatitis transmission
Hepatitis B infection spreads when bodily fluids from an infected person enter the body of a person who is not infected. Bodily fluids can be blood or semen. These bodily fluids can be transferred through sharing needles or syringes, especially among those who use illicit drugs. A mother can also pass down hepatitis to the child in her womb.
Just like HIV, hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual activity. This is a similarity it shares with HIV. However, according to an article published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hepatitis B is 50-100 times more infectious than HIV. Men who have sex with other men are more at risk of contracting hepatitis A, B, and C.
Hepatitis and ED
Research published by Frontiers sheds light on the connection between hepatitis and erectile dysfunction. According to the said research, 76.4% of men with hepatitis B also have erectile dysfunction. Of the said number, 60.3% suffer from severe ED. What causes this high prevalence of ED among those with hepatitis?
Hepatitis causes damage to the liver. If left untreated, viral hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis. A damaged liver can lead to testosterone imbalance which in turn can lead to erectile dysfunction.
Hepatitis C can cause inflammation of the blood vessels. This can affect the blood vessels’ ability to efficiently deliver blood to the various parts of the body, including the penis. This can lead to erectile dysfunction because erections rely on the healthy flow of blood to the penis.
Hepatitis can also cause fatigue and general malaise. These can impact one’s sexual performance and lead to erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.
Hepatitis and infertility
Hepatitis B can cause infertility among men. A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that men with hepatitis B showed decreased sperm viability and motility. This means that men with hepatitis B can still produce sperm but of lower quality. The sperm that they produce also have lower motility. Motility is the sperm’s ability to move. This is crucial because a sperm needs to move to reach and fertilize an egg. Sperms with low motility won’t be able to move through the female reproductive tract to reach the egg.
Psychological effects of hepatitis
Hepatitis can cause considerable stress and anxiety. The constant worrying about the negative effects of the disease can affect one’s psychology. Some can’t help but worry about whether or not they can manage the disease and its symptoms. In addition, there is also the financial strain that such a disease can cause. There is also the risk of infecting loved ones. These psychological factors can lead to depression.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are some psychological causes of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Having a viral disease can also lead to a lack of confidence or low self-esteem which can then lead to ED and PE.
Hepatitis prevention
It is important that we are armed with the knowledge of how to prevent the spread of this highly infectious disease. Hepatitis A is the easiest to prevent because there is a highly effective vaccine to help those at high risk.
To prevent the spread of Hepatitis B and C, it is important to practice safe sex. Using condoms during sexual intercourse reduces the transfer of fluids between sexual partners. If possible, stick to plain condoms because flavoured condoms might be less effective. Refrain from using oil-based lubricants during sexual intercourse because they can make condoms less effective. If you want to use lubricant, go for a water-based lubricant instead.
Avoid engaging in sexual intercourse with multiple partners since this also increases your risk of contracting hepatitis. If this cannot be avoided, ask a new partner to get tested for hepatitis. This can be awkward but it is important if you want to reduce your risk.
Tips on how to deal with hepatitis and sexual dysfunction
Consult a Healthcare Professional – Always seek advice from a doctor or specialist who understands sexual health and hepatitis. They can provide tailored guidance and treatment options.
Open Communication – Talk about your concerns with your partner. Honest conversations are crucial for understanding and support. It can also help reduce your anxiety related to your bedroom performance and overall health.
Education – Educate yourself about both sexual dysfunction and hepatitis. Understanding symptoms, treatment options, and how they interact can empower both you and your partner.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices – Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol and drugs, especially with hepatitis. These factors can significantly affect your overall health and sexual function.
Medication Management – If taking medications for hepatitis, discuss potential side effects with your doctor. Some drugs may contribute to sexual dysfunction, and alternatives might be available. Reach out to a clinic that offers custom treatment for ED and PE, like the Men’s Health Clinic, to address both hepatitis and your bedroom issues.
Consider Therapy – Counselling or sex therapy can address the psychological aspects of sexual dysfunctions and hepatitis. A professional can help you explore intimacy in a safe environment.
Support Groups – Join support groups to connect with other guys who are facing the same challenges as you. Sharing your experiences can provide emotional relief. These guys can also offer practical advice.
Take action today
World Hepatitis Day reminds us that hepatitis is a health concern that we should not take for granted, especially with it being possibly fatal.
It can also cause other serious health issues such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. There is also a direct connection between hepatitis and sexual health issues such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.
Taking proactive steps can lead to improved sexual health and overall well-being. By getting vaccinated, practising safe sex, and maintaining good personal hygiene, you can protect yourself from hepatitis and avoid male sexual dysfunctions.
Early intervention is key, so don’t wait until symptoms escalate. Empower yourself and others today by spreading awareness about hepatitis and its connection to sexual health.
For customised treatment for ED and PE that considers other health diseases, don’t hesitate to book a FREE appointment with a trusted clinic like MHC. Our goal is to restore your confidence in the bedroom and make sure you manage hepatitis effectively.
