Hepatitis C (HCV) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against hepatitis C virus. A positive result shows infection at some point, current or past. Doctors order it to screen for hepatitis C before IVF, surgery or in pregnancy, and when liver tests are abnormal.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careThis is one of the standard infection screening tests done for both partners before IVF and early in pregnancy.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your details and the request
- 2A tourniquet is tied and your elbow cleaned
- 3A needle collects blood into a tube
- 4The lab screens your serum for hepatitis C antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive antibody test is followed by an HCV RNA test to check if the virus is still present, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A reactive result means you have met hepatitis C at some point; an HCV RNA test then shows whether the virus is still present. A negative result usually rules out infection, unless exposure was very recent.
Who usually has this test
Both partners before IVF, pregnant women in many clinics, people with abnormal liver tests, past blood transfusions or other risk factors.
Risks and aftercare
No special aftercare; a positive result is followed by an RNA test.
Names and options
Also called: anti-HCV, HCV test, hepatitis C test, HCV card test
Options
- Serum (lab test)
- Card (rapid) test
Listed by the hospital as
- HCV ANTIBODY, SERUM
- HCV CARD TEST
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUIThis test
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transfer
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
Does a positive HCV antibody mean I have hepatitis C now?
Not always. Antibodies can stay after the infection has cleared or been treated. An HCV RNA test shows whether the virus is still in your blood, and hepatitis C can now usually be cured with tablets.
Why is hepatitis C screened before IVF?
Screening both partners protects you, your baby and the lab, and lets any infection be treated. Hepatitis C can usually be cured with tablets, ideally before pregnancy.
Can a mother with hepatitis C breastfeed?
Guidance generally says breastfeeding is safe unless nipples are cracked or bleeding. Ask your doctor for advice about your situation.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.