Hepatitis B and married life

Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood and certain body fluids, so intimate partners may need testing and vaccination advice. It does not spread through ordinary social contact such as sharing meals, hugging or sitting together. A diagnosis does not define fertility, affection or the ability to marry. Learn more about [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/).

Some people have no symptoms. If either partner develops [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) or [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/), arrange medical assessment; these symptoms have several possible causes.

Be open with your partner and invite them to speak privately with a clinician. Until protection is confirmed, use condoms and do not share razors, toothbrushes or anything that may carry blood. Cover cuts and clean blood spills safely. Ask about [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/) for an unprotected partner. If you have hepatitis B, keep follow-up appointments; a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) can be part of liver monitoring.

Seek prompt care for yellow skin or eyes, worsening dark urine, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting or marked drowsiness. After a recent possible exposure, contact a clinician quickly because preventive steps may be time-sensitive. Urgent help is needed for confusion, collapse or difficulty staying awake.

Ask: Should my partner be tested or vaccinated? When is intimacy adequately protected? Do we need advice before pregnancy? Which follow-up tests monitor my liver?