For peace of mind

Our partnership with Better2Know allows us to test you for Hepatitis C. We can provide you with accurate test results instantly. This confidential STI testing service can be administered from one of multiple private sexual health clinics located all around the UK. You can be infected with Hepatitis C for several years without experiencing any symptoms, which has led to as many as 200,000 people in the UK alone being unaware of their positive status. When symptoms do emerge, they may include muscle and joint pain, fever or inexplicable fatigue. If you have ever shared dirty needles or participated in unprotected sex, no matter how long ago, there is a possibility you have been infected with Hepatitis C. Prompt testing minimises the risk of long term or significant health problems.

STI type: Virus.

Transmission: Hepatitis C can be spread through unprotected sex (whether vaginal, oral or anal), contaminated blood or sharing of contaminated needles, razors and similar items.

Treatment: Antiviral drugs along with monitoring by a specialist.

Consequences: Serious and chronic liver problems including cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Sample needed: Finger stick blood sample.

Incubation period: Ten days.

Results time: Around 15 minutes.

When can I take the test?

It is recommended you wait around six weeks after a possible exposure before administering Better2Know’s instant Hepatitis C test. This will ensure more accurate results, as the condition has an incubation period. All results will be kept confidential.

How soon will I get my results?

Results are delivered just 15 minutes after the submission of the blood sample for the instant Better2Know Hepatitis C test. Your confidential results will be handed to you directly by a member of our pharmacy team.

Is this instant Hepatitis C test accurate?

As long as you wait until after the six week incubation period, an instant Better2Know Hepatitis C test has a 100% accuracy rate.

Medical experts regularly review our STI tests and results to ensure they continue to be accurate and follow current best practices, so you can be assured that you are receiving the best quality of STI testing service.

Should I be tested for any other STIs?

Seven of the most common STIs can be tested for through Better2Know’s instant and confidential service. These include Hepatitis B, HIV, Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, Herpes 1, Herpes 2 and Syphilis.

The instant Hepatitis C test process

There is no requirement to provide your real name during your appointment. Your results cannot be shared without your explicit permission. Your confidentiality will be protected at all times.

Sample collection and analysis: A lancet will be used to collect a blood sample so we can conduct an instant Hepatitis C test. This will just require a brief prick of your finger. The sample is added to a test cassette, where it will then be mixed with a buffer solution. A single line indicates you are negative for Hepatitis C, whilst two lines is reactive, and therefore suggests you may be infected.

If your test is reactive, what Hepatitis C treatment do you receive?

After a reactive test, we will request a further blood sample that can be sent to one of our CPA accredited laboratories for additional testing. Once you have been confirmed positive for Hepatitis C, we can direct you to a specialist who can provide additional advice, including on the range of treatment options available.

Hepatitis C: Transmission, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

Hepatitis C Transmission

Hepatitis C is a virus that can spread through contact with infected blood. It may also be transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex, or through contact with contaminated items such as needles, toothbrushes or razors.

It is not unusual for people with a history of intravenous drug use who shared needles during their youth to start to experience fatigue and aching muscles when in their 40s or 50s, to a much greater degree than their peers. This may be an indicator of the virus, but to be sure you should seek a Hepatitis C test first.

Hepatitis C symptoms

You are unlikely to display any noticeable symptoms in the first days and weeks after being infected with Hepatitis C. Some people go years before the virus begins to have an impact, but the longer you go without treatment, the more likely that symptoms will start to manifest, though often in mild form. These symptoms could include:

. Tiredness

. Aching muscles

. Joint pain

. Fever

. Nausea

. Loss of appetite

. Stomach pain

. Itchiness

Hepatitis C treatment

The damage already caused by hepatitis C cannot be undone, but recent innovations have led to the development of the first ever effective Hepatitis C cure. This will prevent the condition from progressing to its more serious stages. After you have been diagnosed through a Better2Know test, we can refer you for specialist treatment to ensure you have access to the latest medications.

Long term consequences of untreated Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C that is undiagnosed or untreated can lead to more severe issues in the long term. These could include:

. Cirrhosis, or liver scarring. This can impact your liver function more broadly

. Liver cancer

. Liver failure

. Blood disorders

. Skin conditions

. Weight loss

Hepatitis C prevention

To try and avoid contracting Hepatitis C, and to prevent it spreading to any new partner, you can take certain steps:

. Use a condom whenever you have sex

. Do not share items that may come into contact with your blood, including needles, toothbrushes and razors

. Test for Hepatitis C regularly

Availability

View your preferred pharmacy or visit in person at your convenience to discuss this service further.