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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

STD

HIV Screening

The HIV Screening test is an initial test designed to detect HIV antibodies in your blood. It serves as a first step in HIV diagnosis, with positive results requiring confirmation through additional testing methods.

What It Measures

This test detects antibodies that the immune system produces in response to HIV infection. When the body encounters HIV, it generates specific antibodies as part of its immune response, and this test identifies their presence in the blood.

The window period for antibody detection typically ranges from three to twelve weeks after exposure, depending on the specific test methodology used. During this window period, a person may be infected but not yet produce detectable antibodies.

Why It Matters

HIV screening is a fundamental component of sexual health care. Early detection allows for timely access to antiretroviral therapy, which can dramatically improve health outcomes and quality of life. Knowing your HIV status is empowering and enables informed health decisions.

From a public health perspective, screening helps reduce onward transmission. People who know their status and receive treatment can achieve an undetectable viral load, effectively eliminating the risk of sexual transmission.

When to Test

HIV screening is recommended at least once for all adults as part of routine health care. More frequent testing is advised for individuals with ongoing risk factors, such as new or multiple sexual partners, unprotected sexual contact, or injection drug use.

For the most accurate results with this antibody-based test, testing is recommended at least three weeks after potential exposure, with a follow-up test at twelve weeks for definitive results.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Non-reactive result indicates no HIV infection detected. Continue safe practices and regular testing if at risk.

If High

Reactive result requires immediate confirmatory testing. Consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation.

Female

If Low

Non-reactive result indicates no HIV infection detected. Continue safe practices and regular testing if at risk.

If High

Reactive result requires immediate confirmatory testing. Consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation.

Lifestyle Tips

Incorporate HIV screening into your regular health check-ups. Normalising testing as routine health care helps reduce stigma and supports early detection. Discuss your testing schedule with your healthcare provider based on your individual risk factors.

Practise safer sex through consistent condom use and consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at higher risk. Open communication with sexual partners about testing and status supports mutual health and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my screening test is positive?
A positive screening result is preliminary and always requires confirmation with additional testing, such as a Western blot or HIV RNA PCR test. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the confirmation process. A single positive screening does not constitute a definitive diagnosis.
How is this different from the HIV Combo test?
The HIV screening test typically detects only antibodies, while the HIV Combo test detects both antibodies and p24 antigen. The Combo test therefore has a shorter window period and can detect infection earlier. Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate test.
Should I get tested if I feel healthy?
Yes. HIV can be present without symptoms for many years. Routine testing is recommended regardless of how you feel, particularly for sexually active individuals. Knowing your status is an important part of taking care of your health.