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When you go along to a clinic you will speak to a nurse, health adviser or doctor and they would talk to you about the test, about why you want to have one, what risks you might have taken and what the different results mean. This is called "pre-test counselling". Then, if you are happy to continue a small sample of blood is usually taken from your arm for testing.
There are different types of HIV test used in clinics. At the Positive East clinics you can get the results in an hour. This does vary at different clinics, where you might have to come back later in the day or the day after, and some a week later.
In the UK there are different tests used for HIV. The most common ones are the Standard blood test, a rapid blood test and the oral swab test. Not all tests are available at all clinics. At the Positive East clinics, we use the rapid blood test method.
A negative result: If you test HIV negative, you will be offered a sexual health promotion discussion with the clinic about reducing HIV risk.
However as it can take up to three months from when you were infected for antibodies to show up in your blood, this is called the "window period". Having a test before the end of these three months means that antibodies may not show up, but this does not necessarily mean you do not have HIV, and you could be infected.
A reactive result: A reactive result does not necessarily mean you have the virus, but it indicates the test was inconclusive.
The clinician will discuss with you what the results mean and arrange for another blood sample to be taken for a full analysis and an appointment at a suitable local clinic. Your results to be sent direct to the local clinic ensuring confidentiality was maintained.
Why should I go for a HIV test?
Apart from a test could save your life, it is better to know.Without knowing you can protect yourself and protect your partner(s). For more reasons, click here.
For further details about the 1 hour test, click here for details.
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What is a HIV test?