HIV FAQ's
What is an HIV test?
An HIV test is a blood test which looks for the presence of antibodies to the HIV virus. If HIV antibodies are found this means you have been infected with the Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus.
Why might I want to have a test?
There are several reasons why you might decide to have an HIV test:
- You think you may have been exposed to HIV through unprotected sex, sharing injecting equipment or another reason.
- You are in a relationship where you want to stop using condoms and you and Your paretner want to make sure neither of you is infected before doing so.
- You may be going to travel, study or work in a country which requires you to produce a certificate proving you are not infected with HIV.
When can I have a test?
Because it's the antibodies to the HIV that the test looks for and it takes the body three months to produce these antibodies, you must wait this long after you think you might have been infected before having a test.
You must also be careful not to expose yourself to HIV again during this time to avoid having to wait even longer to have the test.
Where can I have an HIV test?
The best place to have an HIV test is the GUM clinic (Genito-urinary medicine clinic), often called a sexual health clinic. There are two reasons for doing this:
- GUM clinics specialise in this area of medicine and have specially trained health advisors and staff
- Details of your test results and any treatment you have will remain confidential within the clinic and will not passed on to your G.P and be added to your medical records
What's involved?
Although most clinics offer a walk-in service, it is best to make an appointment. Usually you will see a health advisor first who will discuss with you the reasons for wanting the test. You may decide not to have the test on this occasion. If you do decide to have the test, you will then have a blood sample taken by the nurse.
When do I get the results?
There are now several ways of getting the results depending on which clinic you attend:
- You make another appointment for a week later (or more, depending on how busy the clinic is) and return to see the health advisor who discusses your result with you
- Some clinics are now offering to give results over the phone to people who are considered likely to have a negative result
- Some clinics offer a same day testing service where you have the test in the morning and return in the afternoon for the results
A Positive Result
If your result is positive this means that your blood contains antibodies to HIV and that you are infected with the virus. The health advisor will be able to explain what happens next and discuss your options with you. S/he can also provide information about other services that are available to people with HIV.
A Negative Result
If you result is negative this means that no antibodies to HIV have been found in your blood indicating that you are not infected with the virus. The health advisor can discuss with you any problems around practising safer sex or other issues you may have.
How do I get a certificate of HIV status?
Some countries require proof of HIV negative status as part of their entry requirements. If you need a certificate stating that you are negative (for visa purposes), some clinics charge for this and it may take a few days to be issued, so it's best to check this out when making your appointment. Unisex has information about each country's requirements and also details of which local and London clinics provide certificates free of charge.
