HIV-1 Viral Load Test

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Biological Marker(s)

HIV-1 RNA

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Window Period

Used for monitoring treatment.

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Sample Required

Blood from vein

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Turn Around Time

4 working days

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If Positive

Refer to NHS for management

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Fees

£200. Learn more.

Journey Overview

HIV-1 Viral Load Test - Clarewell Clinics

#1 Pre-Appointment Questionnaire

To ensure enough time for questions and discussions, we ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire before your appointment.

#2 Consultation

We will begin by assessing your medical & sexual history, any symptoms you may be experiencing and discuss any questions you may have.

If you know exactly which tests you require and prefer to skip the consultation, you can choose our Drop & Go service to save on the consultation fee.

#3 Sample Collection

If it is still appropriate to proceed with the HIV-1 Viral Load test, we will take a blood sample.

#4 Receive Results

Your HIV-1 Viral Load test results are available within 4 working days. You can receive your results by either text or email (recommended).

#5 Aftercare

Once you have received your results, we will discuss your next steps with you. It is crucial to continue following your prescribed HIV treatment plan. You should avoid unprotected sex until your viral load becomes undetectable. If your viral load reaches undetectable levels, it is vital to maintain your HIV treatment to prevent the virus from replicating again.

Eligibility



Best For

Patients diagnosed with HIV-1.



Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

No contra-indications - please discuss pregnancy with clinician.



Menstruation

No contra-indications.



Prior/Repeat Use

No contra-indications.



Do NOT use if

Not diagnosed with HIV-1.

Avoid/Discuss if

Any questions regarding HIV management.

FAQs

Show All Answers

What is the HIV-1 Viral Load test?

The HIV-1 viral load test is a laboratory test used to measure the amount of HIV-1 virus present in a person's blood. It helps in monitoring the progression of HIV-1 infection and assessing the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART).

It is important to note that the HIV-1 viral load test specifically measures the amount of HIV-1 virus in the blood. It does not measure the amount of HIV-2 virus.

Why is there no window period for the HIV-1 Viral Load test?

There is no window period for the HIV-1 Viral Load test because the test is only performed for patients who have already been diagnosed with HIV-1.

When should I have an HIV-1 Viral Load test?

After being initially diagnosed with HIV, your blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for an HIV-1 Viral Load test. It is important to undergo regular HIV-1 Viral Load tests at specific intervals to effectively manage your condition. These include:

At the beginning of your therapy, prior to initiating medication, it is crucial to have a baseline HIV-1 Viral Load test. This test provides essential information about the initial level of the virus in your bloodstream, serving as a reference point for monitoring treatment progress.
Regular monitoring of your viral load is vital for assessing the effectiveness of your antiretroviral therapy (ART). Generally, it is recommended to have HIV-1 Viral Load tests every 3 to 12 months. These routine tests help track the level of HIV-1 virus in your blood and evaluate the response to treatment over time.
Additionally, it is important to follow the personalised recommendations of your healthcare provider. Depending on your specific circumstances and treatment progress, your clinician may advise additional HIV-1 Viral Load tests at specific intervals. These individualised recommendations ensure that your treatment plan is optimised for your well-being.

By adhering to this testing regimen, you can actively manage your HIV condition, monitor the efficacy of your treatment, and make informed decisions about your healthcare in collaboration with your clinician.

How accurate is the HIV-1 Viral Load test?

The current HIV-1 Viral Load test has been improved significantly since its earlier versions. This current version can measure viral load down to 20 or 50 copies per millilitre of blood. Anything less than this is considered undetectable. You will not be able to pass HIV on if your viral load remains undetectable.

What is the difference between a Quantitative and a Qualitative HIV test?

A quantitative HIV test measures the amount of HIV virus in your blood and is performed after a qualitative HIV test comes back positive.

Quantitative tests, such as the HIV Viral Load test, help your clinician decide which combination of HIV medications will work best for you and how effective they will be. It also helps your clinician to keep track of the level of HIV in your body over time.

A qualitative HIV test, such as the 10 Day HIV Test, will only tell you if HIV has been detected or not detected.

How is the HIV-1 Viral Load test different from the HIV-2 Viral Load test?

The HIV-1 Viral Load test is used to determine the viral load of HIV-1 positive patients. Whereas, the HIV-2 Viral Load test is used to determine the viral load of HIV-2 positive patients.

As HIV-1 accounts for the majority of HIV infections worldwide, the HIV-1 Viral Load test is more commonly known and performed than the HIV-2 Viral Load test.

Is my HIV-1 Viral Load test confidential?

Yes. Everything you share with us is confidential and will not be shared with the NHS, your GP or anyone else unless you wish for us to do so.

Does the NHS do this test?

Yes.

How will I receive my HIV-1 Viral Load test results?

You can receive your HIV-1 Viral Load test results by either text or email.

Do I have to take any precautions whilst waiting for my HIV-1 Viral Load test results?

It is important to continue following your HIV treatment plan as laid out by your clinician. You should also avoid unprotected sex until your viral load is classed as undetectable.

If you do receive an undetectable viral load, it is important to maintain your HIV treatment to prevent this from changing.

What do my HIV-1 Viral Load test results mean?

HIV-1 Viral Load tests can be reported in two ways:

Reported as the number of HIV-1 copies in a millilitre (copies/mL) of plasma (blood without the cells).
Reported in logs. For example, on one occasion the Viral Load is 100 copies/mL and on the next occasion it is 1000 copies/mL. This would be reported as a one log increase. Likewise, 100 copies/mL to 10,000 copies/mL would be reported as a two log increase.

Furthermore, an individual may also receive at some point, a viral load result that reads ‘undetectable’. Once an individual’s HIV viral load is undetectable, they will not be able to pass the virus on to others. Undetectable = Untransmissible (U=U).

What happens if I stop taking my HIV medication following an undetectable HIV-1 Viral Load result?

If you stop taking your HIV medication, the HIV virus will begin to replicate itself because you will no longer have anything in your body to suppress the virus.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to continue taking your HIV medication as prescribed in order for your viral load to remain undetectable.

When can I have unprotected sex following my HIV-1 Viral Load results?

Once your viral load result is undetectable, you will not be able to transmit HIV. This is known as Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U).

However, if you do not stick to your HIV treatment plan you will be able to transmit HIV.

It is essential to avoid having unprotected sex if you do not have an undetectable viral load, or if you are worried about messing up your treatment plan.

Will my HIV-1 RNA PCR test show as negative if I am undetectable on the HIV-1 Viral Load test?

No.

Once an individual has HIV, their HIV tests will remain positive for life, even if they have an undetectable viral load.

It is important to remember that it is increasingly possible for individuals with HIV to live a normal, healthy, full life.

Can I have a certificate of my HIV-1 Viral Load test results?

Yes. Along with a text or email of your HIV-1 Viral Load test results, we can email a certificate for official purposes.

Fees

HIV Testing

Instant HIV Test - £130 (£70 as Drop & Go)

10 Day HIV Test - £200 (£140 as Drop & Go)

HIV Viral Load Test - £200

PEP - £550

This must be started within 72 hours of potential exposure to HIV. This includes the consultation/assessment, PEP medications for 28 days and baseline HIV 4th Generation and Hepatitis B/C tests. Any follow up care/tests are additional.

PrEP

One-month supply - £70

Payment Options

Self Pay - By Cash/Card), but not American Express

Health insurance

Patient Feedback

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    C  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been trying to get my coil replaced since May on the NHS, but they couldn't do it as my threads have been cut too short. Waiting lists for NHS gynae appointment are insane (~1 year) so after some deliberating I decided to go private. I chose Clarewell Clinics as they had great reviews and also compared to other clinics, were a lot more reasonably priced.

I booked an ultrasound guided coil removal in hopes that Dr. Elena would be able to do it without needing to go down a more invasive route. Thankfully, she did it with ease and also replaced it with a Mirena coil (on the NHS they had told me my uterus was too small so had to go with Kyleena).

It was such a more pleasant experience than when I did it on the NHS. Dr. Elena and Yemi kept me comfortable and eased my anxiety the whole way through the process. The pain relief options were also better- air and gas was a lifesaver! I could still feel the pain but it was milder and so much more bareable than the insertion I had 5 years ago. It was over quickly and I was sent away with a heat pack to ease the cramping afterwards.

Thank you so much Dr Elena, Yemi and also Ryaan for being a friendly face in the reception.

I would thoroughly recommend Clarewell Clinics :)
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    K S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a mirena replacement with Elena, supported by Ryan.
I have previously had bad experiences, but the approach here and the pain management meant if I had to come back next week for another one, I’d do it.
I arrived feeling sick and shaking but Ryan put me at ease, Elena did a fantastic and quick job and the gas and air made a huge difference, I barely felt anything.  The whole team were friendly and welcoming and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.  I had an injection and she didn’t wait for pain to come to manage it, it was managed upfront.  I’m so incredibly grateful, thank you.  Ryan and Elena are a fantastic team
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    P R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr Aaron Williams saw us while we were visiting London from the US and he treated us well, with compassion and professionalism. Seeing him helped put us at ease for the rest of our trip, which ended up being great.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    E R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Incredible care and treatment. Can't thank Dr Jayadeva and his team enough who put me at great ease and looked after me. Wonderful clinic will be recommending.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a copper coil removal yesterday with Dr Praveen Jayadeva. If you are at all nervous about an iud fitting or removal, I couldn't recommend this clinic enough. I had a very painful experience at a different clinic that made me really scared about the removal procedure. They really take the time to talk you through what's going to happen and what type of pain relief options you have. They were so friendly and comforting (both the doctor and the amazing assistant) and procedure was so quick. They even offer you tea and biscuits afterwards. Really fantastic and professional clinic!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    B G 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a coil done here. It was an amazing experience, really worth the money paid. The doctor took the time to go through the process and all the options in detail. I felt prepared and well cared for. I had numbing gel and spray and also gas and air. The actual coil fitting was less then 5 minutes. I felt a little discomfort, but the gas and air managed this very well. The team were all very supportive and caring.
My coil lasts for 5 years, I'm very happy with my experience. Could not recommend enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    D  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Malu was able to help me fully understand and put into context my concerns surrounding HPV, which at times can feel like a confusing subject. His ability to listen and understand my concerns with empathy and without judgement was very helpful. I am grateful for the expertise and care given by Dr. Malu and the staff at his clinic. The team provides a very professional and comfortable experience.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic and caring team from booking process, reception, appointment and billing. Went for a coil removal. They had ultrasound and gas for pain management (when I checked it seemed they were the only clinic that offered this!!). 100% recommend. Especially if you’re getting a coil, want to make sure you do it with a top professional team. I inserted it elsewhere and it was a barbaric procedure for me, insanely painful and just awful. So save yourself unnecessary trauma/pain
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a great experience at Clarewell Clinic. I was extremely nervous about the pain before my copper IUD fitting, but Dr Praveen Jayadeva explained everything clearly throughout the appointment and made me feel completely comfortable. I was given pain relief and the fitting was honestly so much easier than I expected — I barely felt any pain at all. Yasmin was also incredibly lovely and reassuring throughout. I’m genuinely so happy I chose Clarewell and would definitely recommend them. 10/10.