There are several types of human immunodificiency virus (HIV) tests available and approved for use in the United States. Tests can be done with an oral swab, where a plastic device is rubbed on the inside of your mouth, a blood test, where a needle is inserted into a vein to remove a small amount of blood, and urine tests that analyze urine, although these tests are not commonly used.
Types
There are several ways that HIV tests work. DNA or RNA tests looks for the actual genetic makeup of the HIV virus; this test is more expensive than the HIV antibody test, but it can detect HIV earlier. The HIV antibody test looks for signs that your body is fighting an HIV infection in the form of HIV antibodies. Antigen tests look for the material that causes the body to produce antibodies to HIV.
Time Frame
Test results can take up to a week for blood tests. The oral test, and some blood tests, can be done in 20 minutes; these are called "rapid tests." Rapid tests that come up positive for HIV will need to be followed up with a second test before confirmation of HIV status is made. There is also an at-home test where you take your own blood sample, mail the test to a company and call for your results.
Considerations
People develop antibodies to HIV at different speeds--this is referred to as a "window period." Antibody detection by the HIV test can take two to eight weeks from infection. For a few people, it can take up to six months. Getting tested during your window period can cause you to have a negative test result when you are HIV positive. It is recommended that you get a second HIV antibody test at least three months after possible exposure if an earlier test gave negative results.
Getting Tested
Remember it is possible to be infected with HIV and receive a negative result either because of the short time period from when you were infected, or because you received a false-positive result. For these reasons, it is important to get tested for HIV regularly if you are at risk for contracting the virus. If you are sexually active or an injection drug user of any kind, you may be at risk for HIV.
Prevention
There are many ways to reduce your risk for contracting the HIV virus. The best way to prevent sexually-transmitted HIV is by abstaining from oral, anal and vaginal sex, or any activity where blood, semen, or vaginal fluids could be exchanged. If you do engage in sexual activity, you can reduce your risk by reducing your number of partners, only engaging in sex with a partner who is HIV negative, and using latex or polyurethane condoms and barriers each time you have sex. Needle users can reduce their risk by never sharing needles or "works" and disinfecting needles. Remember that HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk.
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