I wish I had been told

My partner was diagnosed with hepatitis B long before we met. I didn't know this, of course, and she didn't tell me before we started sleeping together. She was having some issues with her meds and side effects and eventually it all came out in a tearful scene one night. Apparently she has what's called chronic hep, not sure what exactly that means.

I can understand why she didn't want to tell me...embarrassed, afraid I'd dump her and all that. I'm going to test of course but I'm so upset with her....not just for putting my health at risk but because she didn't tell me and give me a chance to make an informed decision. I could have had a vaccine to protect me and likely would have stayed with her!

Anyway all this is to say that if you find you have an STD, respect your partner and let them know. I'll bet most of them who want something more than a fling won't leave, and you can work with them to find ways to reduce the risk.

Apparently she has what's called chronic hep, not sure what exactly that means.

Hepatitis B is usually an acute, or short-term, infection. When it becomes chronic - the body is unable to clear it- there is a risk of liver damage. Most adults who contract the virus don't become chronic, but childhood infections (especially among infants) are much more likely to become chronic.

The relatively good news, then, is if you have become infected it isn't likely to be a major illness that causes problems down the road. Get checked for sure, and considering doing an HIV test, too.

For more on hep b go to Hepatitis B - Confidential STD Testing &amp Private On-line Results.

I totally get why you're upset, I would be too. I can also see why your partner didn't say anything, I mean, she was probably convinced it would just end things, like you said. Still, that doesn't justify not telling you. Just curious, are you still with her? It seems like you're not but not 100% sure.

I hope things go well for you, and from reading other posts it looks like it probably will. Hang in there!