Private Hepatitis C Testing in London

Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can range from mild to severe. While it may not cause symptoms initially, Hepatitis C can lead to significant liver damage, including cirrhosis or liver cancer. The disease often goes undetected due to the lack of or mildness of symptoms. Hepatitis C is treatable with antiviral medication. Our STI clinic in London provides accurate Hepatitis C testing. You can schedule an appointment for Hepatitis C testing online or by phone.

Causes

The virus causing Hepatitis C infection is the hepatitis C virus and transmits through blood-to-blood contact.

The infection may spread in ways such as:

• Sharing items like toothbrushes or razors
• Using unsterilized needles
• Through unsafe sex and intercourse
• To an unborn baby through the mother who already has the infection 

When should I get tested?

You should consider getting tested for Hepatitis C if you think you have been exposed to the virus. The primary route of transmission is through blood-to-blood contact or sexual contact.

Symptoms:

• Flu-like symptoms (such as fatigue, fever)
• Joint pain
• Itchy skin
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain, particularly in the liver area
• Dark urine
• Grey-colored or pale feces
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What does the test include?

Hepatitis testing is a blood test, and you can expect your blood sample to be taken by a doctor or nurse. This will be sent to the laboratory for test results. There is a vaccine available for Hepatitis C, which prevents you from getting infected with this virus. The vaccine can be administered in three shots.

What to Expect

FAQS

How will I manage my hepatitis C?

You will need to restrict your intake of alcohol to decrease the damaging effects of hepatitis on your liver. Other helpful factors include weight control, quitting smoking, and taking vaccines against hepatitis A and hepatitis B. All these measures are effective in protecting your liver from further damage.

How can I lessen the risk of passing on hepatitis C to others?

You can lessen the risk of transmitting hepatitis C by:

• Not sharing your personal belongings such as toothbrushes or razors
• Practicing safe sex, especially during anal sex or menstruation
• Not sharing needles, syringes, or other injecting equipment with others
• Keeping cuts and grazes clean and covered with a dressing
• Using household bleach to clean blood from surfaces
• Not donating blood

Can you test negative for Hep C and still have the infection?

A single negative test doesn’t confirm that a person is not infected. The virus may be present in the blood and not detected through PCR. A person who has been infected in the past and has recovered may have a negative test. If hepatitis C is suspected and PCR results are negative, PCR should be repeated.

Can I get Hepatitis C through sexual contact?

Yes, although it is extremely rare, hepatitis C can be transmitted during sex. The risk may be higher among men who have sex with men. It is advisable to wear a condom whenever engaging in sexual intercourse with a new partner