HIV Testing

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Window Period

From 10 Days or 45 Days

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Sample Required

Blood

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Locations

London, Birmingham

Common HIV Tests

	HIV 4th Generation (Rapid Test)	HIV-1 RNA PCR	HIV-1 Viral Load
Biological Marker	HIV 1&2 antibody + p24 antigen	HIV-1 RNA & Pro Viral DNA	HIV-1 RNA
Window Period	From 45 days	From 10 days	Used for monitoring established infection
Detection Method	Immunochromatography (Instant Test), Qualitative	PCR, Qualitative	PCR, Quantitative
Sample Type	Blood	Blood	Blood
Result Time	30 minutes	4 hours	4 working days
Result Output	Not Detected / Equivocal	Not Detected / Detected	Copies/mL or Undetectable
Price (with Consultation)	£130	£200	£200
Price (Drop & Go)	£70	£140	N/A

FAQs

Show All Answers

Do I need an 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.

More about 10 Day HIV Test >

What do the HIV test 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.

For HIV-1 Viral Load results >

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 HIV 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.

More about HIV treatment >

Do I have to tell my partner if I test positive for HIV?

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.