Hi,
I just found out that I may have been exposed from a recent tattoo. I have several and have donated blood in the past (4-5 years ago and was fine). I went to what I thought was a reputable shop. I saw them open new needles and use gloves, ink was in dispobable containers. I have now heard that that may not be enough.

I am scared to death to get tested and find out the results. What if I have it and exposed my husband? I should also say that I have had my liver function tested 2x in the last 5 mos due to meds that I'm on and they came back well within the norm. I would appreciate any advice/support.

Thanks!

Well, hepatitis can be spread via tattoos but the chance of that happening is low. There are people who would argue with this because there has been studies that have identified tattoos as high risk behavior for hepatitis c. Most of the studies were done in a small population of people and many other factors could have contributed to there results. Tattoos applied in a reputable shop should be safe. There is always a risk because hepatitis can be spread by anything that pierces the skin but if correct procedures are followed that risk is minimal. Since you have not had any problems with your liver function tests my guess is that you have not been exposed to the disease. Go and get tested just for a piece of mind but almost certainly your test will be negative