Hepatitis A, B and C

Page last reviewed 20.11.2025

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. There are several types of hepatitis viruses, such as A, B and C. Hepatitis infections are common worldwide. In Finland, the most prevalent type is hepatitis C, which mainly spreads among people who inject drugs. Depending on the virus type, hepatitis can lead to mild, acute or chronic inflammation.

Sexually transmitted hepatitis infections are very rare in Finland and are not commonly considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Testing for hepatitis is primarily done in public healthcare, where practices vary by region and patient group. Testing and treatment for hepatitis B and C are free of charge in Finland. For hepatitis A, standard public healthcare fees apply.

Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B. People in risk groups can receive the vaccine free of charge. Risk groups include, for example, men who have sex with men (MSM). The vaccine should be obtained from your local health center. Read about vaccination HERE!

There is medication available for hepatitis C that can cure the infection completely.

How is hepatitis transmitted through sex?

  • Hepatitis A can be transmitted during anal sex without a condom and through rimming (oral-anal contact) when a dental dam is not used.
  • Hepatitis B can be transmitted during vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom, and through oral sex or rimming when condoms or dental dams are not used.
  • Hepatitis C can be transmitted through sex in situations where blood containing the virus enters the body or mucous membranes.

What symptoms can hepatitis cause?

  • Hepatitis A: May be asymptomatic. Possible symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea, fever, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin, eyes or mucous membranes.
  • Hepatitis B: Often asymptomatic. Possible symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, eyes or mucous membranes, and sometimes muscle or joint pain. A small percentage of those infected become chronic carriers.
  • Hepatitis C: Usually asymptomatic. Possible symptoms include loss of appetite, fatigue, fever, joint and muscle pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Most infected individuals become chronic carriers.

When and how is hepatitis tested?

  • Hepatitis A: Tested with a blood test if symptoms suggest infection. You can only get hepatitis A once in your lifetime.
  • Hepatitis B: Tested with a blood test at least 4 weeks after possible exposure. A negative result is reliable 4 months after the risk situation.
  • Hepatitis C: Tested with a blood test at least 8 weeks after possible exposure. A negative result is reliable 6 months after the risk situation.

 How is hepatitis treated?

  • Hepatitis A: No medication available. Usually resolves on its own within weeks to a few months. A two-dose vaccine provides lifelong protection and is free for risk groups.
  • Hepatitis B: Acute infections usually resolve on their own. A small percentage become chronic carriers. Chronic infection cannot be cured but symptoms can be managed with medication. A three-dose vaccine provides lifelong protection and is free for risk groups.
  • Hepatitis C: Curable with medication available through public healthcare, free of charge.
Read more about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)