HIV Testing

HIV is a virus that, if left untreated can lead to a life threatening condition called AIDS. HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus; it is so called because it attacks the immune system, resulting in a decreased ability to fight off disease and infection.

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, a condition in which a person’s immune system is no longer functioning. This places the individual at increased risk of serious ill health.

The virus is found in the following body fluids: blood, pre-cum/semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk. The virus can be transmitted when the fluid containing the virus from an infected person enters the body of another person. The risks of HIV transmission are increased by the following:

• Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
• Sharing needles or ‘works’ to inject drugs
• Mother to child transmission during pregnancy
• Contaminated blood or blood products

Although there is no cure for HIV, those diagnosed with the infection can take medication which significantly reduce the risk of life threatening illnesses associated with HIV/AIDS.

The benefits of knowing you are HIV positive now far outweigh potential drawbacks. Testing allows people to remain healthier for longer by accessing care and treatment sooner, as opposed to remaining untested and unaware of infection and risking ill health.

1. Condoms. Using condoms for vaginal and anal sex are the best way of reducing transmission of HIV. Sex can cause abrasion or tearing to the tissue inside the vagina, rectum or penis, making HIV easier to pass into the body.
2. Oral Sex. Levels of risk around oral sex have always been a bit of a grey area. Whilst not high risk, oral sex cannot be said to be risk-free. Don’t perform oral sex on a customer or partner if: you have cuts, sores or ulcers in or around your mouth, have bleeding or inflamed gums, have a throat infection or swollen tonsils, if you have just brushed you teeth or flossed. Not letting a customer or partner ejaculate in your mouth will significantly reduce any infection risk.
3. Drugs and Alcohol. Your decision making can change under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs. You’ll feel less inhibited and may take risks you wouldn't otherwise. Limiting the amount will help to reduce risk
4. Saying “No”. People can sometimes end up being placed in situations or taking risks because they feel unable or uncomfortable to negotiate the type of sex they feel happy with.
5. Safer injecting. Not sharing injecting equipment for drug use with others will prevent transmission of HIV and other blood borne viruses.
6. Have regular Sexual Health Checks. Having a check up on a regular basis will help to ensure that you reduce the risk of any undiagnosed STIs. Presence of other infections may potentially make HIV easier to pass on.

Many people undertake HIV testing to know their status, particularly upon entering a new relationship or following a particular event that has concerned them.

HIV testing is becoming more and more common place in the UK. Many people can now access testing at their GP surgery and is offered routinely to pregnant women as part of their antenatal care.

A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm, and is sent to a laboratory, where it is tested for the presence of HIV antibodies. These are markers of infection in the blood. The HIV Antibody test, searches for HIV-1 and HIV-2.

There are two possible results from the test

• HIV Negative (HIV Antibody Not Detected). No antibodies were found in the blood sample, meaning the person does not have HIV infection.
• HIV Positive (HIV Antibody Detected). Antibodies were found in the blood sample, meaning that the person has HIV infection.

No. It can take up to three months for HIV Antibodies to develop; this is referred to as the “Window Period”. If you have been at risk of HIV within the past three months, this should not prevent you from testing today, but you should remember to repeat your test three months after your last risk.

Results are available within 2 weeks after your blood was taken. We do not currently offer rapid or same day testing. Many people now choose to receive their results by text message to their mobile telephone. Your message tells you if results are clear, or if positive, will advise you to attend a clinic with an Open Doors team member. We do not provide printed negative results

People, who receive a positive result, understandably may have many concerns and questions. The Open Doors Staff will provide support and information through this difficult period. A referral will be made to a specialist HIV team; this will be arranged by the Open Doors Staff and a Health Adviser in one of the clinics.

Sometimes when people find out that their result is negative they can remain worried about their risk. It can often be helpful to discuss these concerns with the Open Doors Staff.

There can be number of factors that affect people’s ability to achieve and maintain good sexual health. These can include: difficulties with safer sex negotiation and condom use, erection difficulties, female sexual difficulties, lack of satisfaction or enjoyment with sex life. There are specialist clinics and services to which people can be referred that may help. Open Doors Staff may be able to assess your needs and refer you as necessary.