Hepatitis B and C Test

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are viral infections that are blood-borne and affect the liver. They can be passed though sexual contact along with direct contact with infected blood. Hepatitis B is easier to transmit than Hepatitis C through sexual contact. Hepatitis C is seen as a risk for men who have sex with men and those who share intravenous needles.

How does the test work?

The GUM Clinic will send you a kit in the post on the day that you place your order so long as the order is on the system before 5.00 pm Monday to Friday. The kit is very easy to use and is specially designed for use in a non-clinical environment.

The test requires a very small blood sample and this is extracted using a finger prick device. The blood collects in a small container that is then sent back to our lab in the business reply envelope provided.

The testing uses a method known as ELISA and examines for the antibodies and antigens. Early detection is possible from 9 days in the case of Hepatitis C.

How quick are the results?

The sample normally arrives back at the lab the day after you send it (if you are sending from within the UK.) Once we have the sample in the lab, results are available to view in your account within 4 hours.

What happens if I test positive?

If you test have a reactive result then we have to refer you to a local clinic near where you live to have a confirmation test carried out. In most cases the results are negative and these would be considered conclusive after a certain period for each infection.

If you test negative but you have symptoms that you are concerned about then we can advise on the next course of action.

We would normally expect Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C to be detectable within 45 days and 65 days respectively but it can take longer.