PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET

Hepatitis B and C testing: when should you be tested?

Hepatitis testing is simple, confidential, and can identify infections before they cause liver damage or symptoms.

Reviewed by the Verra Health clinical team · Last reviewed September 2026

Testing is not a judgment. Hepatitis B and C are common infections that can be present without symptoms. Ask for testing if you are concerned about a past exposure or want to understand your health history.

What are hepatitis B and C?

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are viruses that can spread through blood or body fluids. If an infection becomes long-term, it can cause liver scarring, liver failure, or liver cancer. Early diagnosis allows monitoring and treatment when needed.

When should you consider testing?

You are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
You were born in, lived in, or received medical care in a region where hepatitis B or C is more common.
You have had sex or close household contact with someone who has hepatitis B.
You have ever shared needles or equipment for injecting, inhaling, or using drugs.
You received a blood transfusion, blood products, or an organ transplant before screening became routine in the relevant country.
You have had a tattoo, piercing, medical, dental, or cosmetic procedure where equipment safety was uncertain.
You have HIV, liver disease, persistently abnormal liver enzymes, or are starting immune-suppressing medication.
You simply want testing or are unsure whether a past exposure matters.

Pregnancy and hepatitis B

Hepatitis B screening is routinely recommended during every pregnancy, usually early in prenatal care. If a pregnant person has hepatitis B, the healthcare team can plan care that greatly reduces the chance of passing the virus to the baby.

How are the tests done?

Testing uses a blood sample. Hepatitis B testing may look for infection, past infection, or protection from vaccination. Hepatitis C testing usually starts with an antibody test. If antibodies are found, an RNA test checks whether the virus is currently present. Your healthcare provider will explain which tests are appropriate.

What do the results mean?

Negative: The test did not find evidence of infection, although testing too soon after an exposure can miss an infection. Your clinician may recommend repeat testing.

Positive or reactive: This does not always mean a current infection. Follow-up testing is needed to clarify the result.

Immune: Some hepatitis B results show protection from vaccination or a previous infection. If you are not protected, vaccination may be recommended.

Can hepatitis be prevented or treated?

Hepatitis B can often be prevented with vaccination. Household and sexual contacts of someone with hepatitis B may need testing and vaccination.
There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, so avoiding blood exposure is important.
Hepatitis B can be monitored and treated when needed. Hepatitis C can usually be cured with prescription treatment.

Contact a healthcare provider promptly if you develop yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, severe nausea or vomiting, marked abdominal pain, confusion, or unusual bleeding. These symptoms can have many causes but need medical assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Is hepatitis testing a routine blood test for everyone?

Not usually. Hepatitis B and C testing is generally based on pregnancy, possible exposure, health history, or personal request. Hepatitis B screening is routinely recommended during every pregnancy.

What is the difference between hepatitis B and C?

Both viruses can affect the liver and may cause no symptoms. Hepatitis B can often be prevented with vaccination and may become a long-term infection. Hepatitis C has no vaccine, but modern treatment can usually cure the infection.

Can hepatitis be present without symptoms?

Yes. Many people do not feel unwell when they first have hepatitis B or C. Testing is the only way to know whether you have been infected.

What happens if a hepatitis test is positive?

Your healthcare provider will explain whether the result shows a current infection, a past infection, or immunity. More blood tests may be needed, and treatment or specialist follow-up may be recommended.

Where can I get tested?

Ask your family doctor, nurse practitioner, medical clinic, sexual health clinic, or public health unit. Testing can be discussed privately and can often be done with other bloodwork.

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Trusted information

This leaflet is for general education and does not replace individualized medical advice.