Need help

[youtoo]

I'm originally from africa, and tested positive for hep c in 2005.  Been in the U.S for almost 10 years and cannot figured out how and when i contracted the virus.  Well, being from an African country might explain it considering I had not had sex until 2006 with my current boyfriend (4 years and some month together now).  My ALT levels were 10 in 2005 and I did do a HCV ab, RIBA test 2 days after that and the test was negative.  I'm not sure what that means.  I mean my doc explained it all but I still get confused.  I do lots of reading on the topic but some are even more confusing.  It has afffected my relationship with my boyfriend because I'm very afraid that I might pass it on to him (he knows all about it and has been very supportive) and it something I cannot live with.  
Did another set of tests 2 days ago (5/29/08) and I'm nervous about the results since it's been awhile since my last testing were done.  What results can I expect from my last testing.  The supense is killing me and should I be worried about passing it on to my boyfriend.  
Someone please help me understand........:-(

[Marcia2202]

The most important thing is to educate yourself on the illness. And you have come to the right place. Read as much as you can, and ask questions when you don't understand. There is a very good detailed UK site on the subject. It's called www.hepctrust.org.uk

All the best, Marcia

[eureka254]

You're not alone in not  being able to figure out how you got the virus --- many people who have Hep C can't either.  

As far as sexual transmission, it is very rare for Hep C to be sexually transmitted.  It's a bloodborne disease, so unless you both have open wounds while actively engaging in sex, the risk of transmission is small.  My husband (who probably has had HCV for about 40 years) and I have had unprotected sex since 1986, and I am still Hep C negative.  I hope that helps to alleviate your worries.  I am glad to hear that your boyfriend is supportive.

Some people who are exposed to Hep C develop chronic infection, but some people rid the disease spontaneously, on their own.  If your 5/29 blood testing included a Viral Load test (often called a RIBA or PCR) that should tell you for sure where you stand.  If your RIBA/PCR test shows undetectable virus, you should rest easy.  If your Viral Load test shows >50 IU/ml, it would mean that there is detectable virus in your blood, and I hope that is not the case.  If there is, you might want to return to this forum for more information and support.

Best of luck to you.
eureka