Why should I take an HIV test? Expand The only way of knowing if you have HIV is by taking an HIV test. Tests are free, reliable, quick and confidential. You should take an HIV test if you feel you have been at risk. Some examples could include having condomless sex or if you have shared injecting drug equipment.
What does an HIV test involve? Expand An HIV test involves a blood sample being taken. The way the tests works is that if you have HIV your body reacts by producing antibodies which are present in your blood, the HIV test simply checks for their presence. Rapid tests may also be available which involve a saliva sample or a finger-prick test. An HIV test is the only way to tell if you have HIV.
How long should I wait to take an HIV test? Expand You should take an HIV test if you feel you have been at risk. After initial infection there is a "window period" during which HIV cannot be detected by a test, this period can last from a few weeks up to 3 months. HIV diagnosis tests work by detecting HIV antibodies made by your immune system as a reaction to being infected with HIV. Even though HIV will be present in the blood stream It can take your body many weeks to produce enough antibodies to show up in a diagnosis test. If you are tested during the window period it may incorrectly show a negative result. If you're not sure about this speak with your doctor or sexual health nurse.Once the window period has passed, the antibodies will be detectable in your blood and a definitive HIV diagnosis, whether positive or negative, can be confirmed. However, if you think you have been at risk do not wait until the window period has passed. Contact your nearest sexual health clinic or GP who should be able to advise you on testing options.
How often should I get tested? Expand If you have had any potential risk factors for HIV it is important to get tested even if you have no symptoms. As with lots of sexually transmitted infections, many people who have recently contracted HIV do not feel unwell. If you are a man who is sexually active with other men, you should routinely get tested every six months or more regularly if you have had condomless anal sex with a new or casual partner.Our advice is that if you have a new sexual partner both of you should have a sexual health check-up, including a blood test, to make sure you are not putting each other at risk of HIV or any other sexually transmitted infection.
How long will it take to get the results? Expand Rapid testing can take as little as 90 seconds 15 minutes before you get the results. If you have blood taken results usually take between 24 hours to one week, depending where the test is done. If the test is positive you will be referred to a specialist for further advice, support and treatment.
Understanding your results Expand You may have tested reactive on a rapid test. The test is likely to be very accurate if you ordered it or purchased the test from a reputable source. The reactive result means that HIV antibodies have probably been detected in your blood. For certainty, you should have a confirmatory test at a clinic where your blood will be taken. This result can take up to a week to receive the result. It is not unusual to feel scared and lonely during this time. Talking to someone during this time can be extremely helpful and comforting.