Hep c worries surrounding sexual activities

[Me1234]

Hey everyone

I really hope this post doesn't offend anyone! Around a year I was in a short relationship with a guy. The guy had some risky past behaviours in terms of drug use. He told me that he had done cocaine a few times, and smoked cannabis regularly. He told me he'd never used IV drugs but I suppose you never know.

I am worried about our sexual activity and whether this is a cause for concern. I know sex is a low risk activity. We weren't together long and only had sex once and used a condom,  I'm not really worried about this exposure. The exposure I'm worried about is 'fingering' and I suppose oral sex as well.

We both performed oral sex on each other however my mouth wasn't bleeding at the time. He had a small sore on his mouth but it wasn't bleeding (more like blood had come to the surface under his skin but hadn't come out of his skin?) If that makes sense. I'm also concerned about him masturbating me. He had a cut on his hand at the time. It was dry as he'd done it hours if not the day prior, is this a possible transmission route?

I have been tested approx 12 weeks after these exposures, alongside hep b and other Stis, all came back clear. As it's probably low risk and I don't even know if he has hep c. I'm hoping for some reassurance that I'm probably okay...

I really don't want to get tested again as It causes a lot of stress and anxiety. I have OCD surrounding this issue and am trying to educate myself surrounding what is a real risk and what is not! I'm hoping this forum can help.

Thank you!

[Lynn K]

Hep c is transmitted by blood to blood contact. It has to enter the blood stream through an open wet weeping wound. A day old closed cut is not an open wound.

You very likely have nothing to worry about.

[Me1234]

Thank you Lynn  That helps to ease the anxiety! I should probably stay away from searching things on the internet as that doesn't help!

[Me1234]

Hep c is transmitted by blood to blood contact. It has to enter the blood stream through an open wet weeping wound. A day old closed cut is not an open wound.

You very likely have nothing to worry about.

Sorry I have a few more questions I hope you don't mind me asking...

I was wondering if the test I had was necessary for these incidents  (for future reference!) ??
How conclusive is the 12 week test?? I know 6 months is said to be definitive but many recommendations now suggest 3 months!

Thanks again!

[Lynn K]

You did not have blood to blood contact from what you described there was no risk of hepatitis C infected blood entering your bloodstream.

No testing is or was needed except perhaps for your own peace of mind.

The up to 6 month wait for testing is in the case for those who have compromised immune systems for example those infected with HIV where it can take longer for sufficient antibodies to develop to detectable levels.

For those with normal immune systems after 12 weeks it is highly likely enough antibodies would have been created by the bodies immune system.

[Me1234]

You did not have blood to blood contact from what you described there was no risk of hepatitis C infected blood entering your bloodstream.

No testing is or was needed except perhaps for your own peace of mind.

The up to 6 month wait for testing is in the case for those who have compromised immune systems for example those infected with HIV where it can take longer for sufficient antibodies to develop to detectable levels.

For those with normal immune systems after 12 weeks it is highly likely enough antibodies would have been created by the bodies immune system.

Thank you for your really helpful responses!