What is a hepatitis C test?
This test checks for the presence of hepatitis C antibodies in your blood. The test consists of a fingerprick blood test that you can easily perform from home. You will receive detailed instructions with your test on how to collect the sample. After collection, send your sample to our certified laboratory using the prepaid shipping label, where it will be analyzed. You will receive the results within a few days of the sample reaching the lab.
What is the window period for hepatitis C?
Every STI has a window period. This is the time between when an individual is infected and the moment that the STI is detectable with a test. Hepatitis C antibodies are usually detectable by a test approximately 8-11 weeks after exposure. However, in some cases, the infection only detectable after 6 months. If you have tested before 6 months, consider repeating this test in the future.
When should I consider taking a hepatitis C test?
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to hepatitis C or belong to a group that is at a higher risk of exposure, getting tested is recommended.
Hepatitis C often does not cause noticeable symptoms, meaning you could be infected even if you feel completely healthy.
Certain groups have a higher risk of hepatitis C infection, including
- Current and former drug users, especially those who have injected drugs
- People who have lived in or undergone medical treatment in regions where hepatitis C is common, such as Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia
- Babies and children born to mothers with hepatitis C
- Healthcare workers or others who have been accidentally exposed to infected blood
- Those who have had tattoos or piercings in settings where equipment may not have been properly sterilized
- Sexual partners, family members, and close contacts of individuals with hepatitis C
What does the result of this test mean?
Anyone who orders a home test from Homed-IQ will receive a complete laboratory report.
A negative test result means you don't have hepatitis C and no treatment is needed.
A positive test result means that you have been infected with the hepatitis C virus at some point in time. Once you have been infected, you will always have antibodies in your blood, even if the infection has resolved. A reactive antibody test does not necessarily mean that you have an active hepatitis C infection, but a follow-up test is needed to check.
How results are shared
We understand that test results can be confusing. At Homed-IQ we make it as easy as possible for you to understand the test result.
In your personal online dashboard you can view your laboratory report as well as a clear and simple explanation of your test results.
How soon will I receive my test results?
You will receive the test result very quickly, often within one to three working days after your sample has arrived at our laboratory.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It spreads through contact with infected blood, often through shared needles, unclean medical equipment, or, in rare cases, unprotected sex. The infection can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute hepatitis C occurs within the first six months after exposure and may cause mild symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or jaundice, though many people have no symptoms at all. In some cases, the body clears the virus on its own. However, in about 50–85% of cases, the infection becomes chronic, meaning the virus remains in the body. Over time, untreated chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver damage, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. Most cases of hepatitis C can be cured with medication. It is important that hepatitis C is detected and treated promptly to avoid serious liver damage.
