HIV Testing
With routine HIV tests with results in 30 minutes and early detection HIV testing from 10 days after possible exposure, we’re the right people to trust with your HIV concerns.
And please be rest assured, all our appointments are highly confidential.
If you have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, please contact your sexual health clinic for PEP ASAP (learn more).
We offer HIV testing in our London, Birmingham & Leicestershire clinics.
Our HIV Tests
All of our HIV tests includes an STI Consultation so you can discuss which HIV test is right for you and any other question that you may have.
Please note: BHIVA (British HIV Association) has changed the window period for HIV testing from 28 days after possible exposure to 45 days after possible exposure. Read more here.
For confirmed HIV positive patients, we offer a HIV-1 Viral Load test to monitor your treatment. Click here learn more.
From 10 days
- Includes a Consultation
- Results in 4 hours
- Window period: from 10 days
- Detects HIV-1 RNA (+pro-viral DNA) by PCR
From 45 days
- Includes a Consultation
- Results in 30 minutes
- Window period: from 45 days
- Detects HIV 1&2 antibody + p24 antigen
“If you’re reading this…
You may have many questions surrounding HIV and what it means for you and your relationships…
or you may have already been tested for HIV before but still have not found the reassurance you need…
or you’re simply looking for same day HIV test results…
our team has the experience and focus to help you move on from thinking about HIV to enjoying the important things in life – all with the utmost respect for your person and confidentiality.”
– Dr Manoj Malu
How does it work?
1. Discuss HIV tests & questions
2. Collect samples & process test
With results by text/e-mail.
3. Treat you, if you're positive
FAQs on HIV Testing
Do I need a HIV test?
A HIV test may be recommended in the following circumstances:
- You have got symptoms that may be potentially due to HIV
- You have been diagnosed with an STI
- you think you could have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- you’ve had unprotected sex with a new partner(s)
- a condom splits while you’re having sex
- you or your partner(s) have had unprotected sex with other people
- a sexual partner tells you they have HIV
- you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy
- You are getting into a new relationship
- You have been diagnosed with a medical condition where there is high chance of underlying HIV infection (Tuberculosis, Lymphomas, Cervical cancer)
What is the window period for HIV?
Please note: BHIVA (British HIV Association) has changed the window period for HIV testing from 28 days after possible exposure to 45 days after possible exposure. Read more here.
The earliest we can test you for HIV is from 10 days after possible exposure. This is using our 10 Day HIV Test which looks for the HIV-1 RNA. We will recommend a repeat HIV test at 28 days for conclusive results.
For a routine HIV test, we recommend a 4th Generation HIV test at 45 days after possible exposure.
For a high risk exposure, we recommend a 4th Generation HIV test at 45 days and then repeated 90 days after possible exposure.
What do the results mean?
If HIV is NOT DETECTED, then it means you do not have the infection. If you need to be re-tested at 45 days or 90 days after exposure, we will let you know so we have conclusive results.
If HIV is DETECTED, then it means that you may have the infection. In this case, we will send a blood sample to the lab for further confirmation.
How long do the HIV test results take?
The time for test results depends on which HIV test is used:
- Instant HIV Test (4th Gen.): within 30 minutes
- 10 Day HIV Test: 4 hours
What happens if my test is positive?
In the event that your HIV test is positive, we will send a sample to the lab for further confirmation (at our own cost). This is in line with standard practice.
Our consultants are specialists in HIV Medicine and have decades of experience in treating patients with HIV in all its stages. Therefore, in the event your test result is positive, you are in the best hands to be looked after.
Do I have to tell my partner if I test positive?
Yes. We will give you all the necessary support in conveying your diagnosis to your partner and get them tested. We will discuss the risk of passing on the infection and any tests and/or treatment your partner may need.
Please note that it is against the law for you to have sex with someone without letting them know you are HIV positive.
Is my HIV test confidential?
Yes. We DO NOT SHARE your HIV test results with anyone. Your HIV test results will stay with us. The NHS or your GP will not have access to your HIV test result.
If you are experiencing symptoms of HIV (AIDS), we would recommend getting tested and begin treatment without delay.
4th Gen. HIV testing
A test for both HIV 1/2 antibody and HIV-1 p24 antigen, from 45 days after possible exposure.
10-Day HIV testing
If you’re at high risk of acquiring HIV, we can look for HIV after 10 days of possible exposure.
HIV-1 viral load test
The HIV-1 Viral Load measures the amount of the HIV virus in your blood – only for HIV positive patients.
HIV PrEP (before exposure)
PrEP is a course of medicine for HIV negative people to reduce the risk of catching HIV, taken before exposure.
HIV PEP (after exposure)
Taken within 72 hours of exposure, this is the most effective way of preventing HIV after exposure.
HIV (AIDS) information
Read our answers to common questions about HIV symptoms, causes & complications.
Page reviewed by Dr. Manoj Malu (Clinical Director)
Last reviewed date: 24 April 2020
Next review due: 24 April 2023
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
Reference & Further Reading
- BHIVA: Consultation version of the BHIVA/BASHH/BIA Adult HIV Testing Guidelines 2020
- BHIVA: UK National Guidelines for HIV Testing 2008
- Roche: Elecsys® HIV combi PT 4th Generation (Ag+Ab test)
- Aidsmap: How accurate is self-testing for HIV?
- BMJ: Prospective observational study to evaluate the performance of the BioSure HIV Self-Test in the hands of lay users
- NHS: HIV and AIDS – Diagnosis
- NICE: HIV testing: increasing uptake among people who may have undiagnosed HIV
If you are experiencing symptoms
It is important to refer to a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Our experience combined with timely detection can help avoid complications in the future.