HIV Scotland
promoting positive change
promoting positive change
The only way of knowing if you have HIV is by taking an HIV test. If you are worried about going for a test, or about the results, you can talk in confidence to a health adviser or blood borne virus adviser/nurse at your local clinic, to find out what it involves.
Tests are free, reliable, quick and confidential. Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be successfully treated if diagnosed early. HIV treatment does not cure HIV, but slows its spread in the body and helps people live longer and healthier lives. Remember the earlier you get tested the better for your own health and the health of others.
Getting an HIV test will show if you are HIV positive or negative. If the test shows that you are infected with HIV you will be able to get treatment quickly, helping you to lead a healthier life with HIV treated and controlled. If the test is negative, it can be reassuring and encourage you to have safer sex in the future.
It’s a good idea to get an HIV test if you’ve never been tested before or if you’ve had unprotected sex since your last test.
If you contract HIV, you won’t have signs of the infection in your blood straight away. The virus is usually apparent within three months. This period of time is referred to as the Window Period.
If you are tested during this time and your test result is negative, you may still be incubating or at the early stages of infection. Therefore, if you have a test less than three months after the potential risk, you should be tested again.
You should practise safer sex at all times for this reason, as you or your partner may not be aware that you are infected with HIV. If your result turns out to be a false negative, you can still transmit the virus to sexual partners during this window period.
You may find that you’re offered an HIV test when you attend a sexual health clinic. Otherwise, attend if you think you’ve been at risk. If you are a man who is sexually active with other men, you should routinely get tested every 6 months.
A HIV test involves a simple blood sample being taken. If you have HIV your body reacts by producing antibodies, which can be checked from a blood sample. This is the only way to tell if you have HIV.
You can ask your Doctor for an HIV test or try family planning and sexual health services including:
Results usually take between 24 hours to 2 weeks, depending where the test is done. If the test proves positive, you will be referred to a specialist for further advice, support and treatment. If you want to know more, then speak to someone at your clinic, health centre or local agency.
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More people than ever are living with HIV in Scotland. Most are well, able to cope with relationships, family life, work and individual daily routines.