What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining whether Hepatitis C antibodies were detected and what this means for your liver health. These notes include personalized recommendations such as lifestyle changes to protect your liver, whether you need confirmatory testing or specialist referral, and guidance on preventing transmission. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your testing history over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful for monitoring if you're at ongoing risk or undergoing treatment.

When will I get my results?

Most Hepatitis C antibody test results are available within 1-3 business days. If the initial antibody test is positive and reflex testing is triggered, it may take an additional 2-3 days for complete results. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready and can access them through your secure online account.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is recommended for anyone born between 1945-1965, people who received blood transfusions before 1992, current or former injection drug users, healthcare workers after needle-stick exposure, and individuals with HIV. It's also important for people with unexplained liver problems, those on long-term dialysis, or anyone who's had unprotected sex with multiple partners or shared personal items like razors with someone who has Hepatitis C.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Many people with Hepatitis C have no symptoms at all, which is why testing based on risk factors is so important. When symptoms do occur, they may include persistent fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain or swelling, nausea, loss of appetite, or joint pain. However, these symptoms often don't appear until significant liver damage has occurred, so testing is crucial even without symptoms if you have risk factors.

How can I naturally support my liver health?

Supporting liver health involves avoiding alcohol completely if you have Hepatitis C, as it accelerates liver damage. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise, stay well-hydrated, and avoid unnecessary medications or supplements that stress the liver. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and cruciferous vegetables can help protect liver cells, and getting adequate sleep helps your liver perform its natural detoxification processes.

What does a positive Hepatitis C Antibody result mean?

A positive antibody result means you've been exposed to the Hepatitis C virus at some point. However, it doesn't automatically mean you currently have an active infection, as about 15-25% of people clear the virus naturally. That's why reflex testing is important—it determines whether you have an ongoing infection that needs treatment or if your body successfully cleared the virus. Your doctor notes will explain next steps based on your specific results.

How often should I retest for Hepatitis C?

If you have a negative result but continue high-risk behaviors like injection drug use or have ongoing exposure risks, annual testing is recommended. Healthcare workers after a needle-stick injury should retest at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. If you've been treated for Hepatitis C and cleared the virus, you don't need routine retesting unless you're re-exposed. People with chronic Hepatitis C should have regular monitoring tests every 6-12 months to assess liver function and viral load.