It is a big decision whether to take a HIV test or not. You may want to have a think about the following questions:

• - Why do I want to have a test?
• - Do you think you have put yourself at risk of HIV?
• - What would the results mean to me?
• - Having a positive result can be a great shock whether expected or not. Am I really prepared for this?
• - What happens when I go for a test?
• - Sometimes not knowing what will happen in the testing centre can be just as scary as thinking about having the test.
• - How confidential is it?
• - Will my doctor, family, employers or Insurance company find out I've been for a test?

[Terrence Higgins Trust, 2003]

DHIVERSE offer confidential support around HIV testing. If you would like to talk over any issues about the HIV test please contact us on 01223 508805 or alternatively via email at .

• The HIV test is a blood test to detect the presence of HIV antibodies it is not a test for HIV itself, but the body’s immune response towards it.

• HIV antibodies can take up to 3 months to form after an infection (very occasionally up to 6 months, but this is rare). The conversion from HIV Negative to HIV Positive status is known as 'seroconversion'. The window period is sometimes is referred to as the 'seroconversion interval'. Some people experience a flu-like illness at the point of seroconversion. This is known as a seroconversion illness.

• GUM clinics also offer pre- and post-test counselling, whether the result is positive or negative.

• By law, all GUM/sexually transmitted infection clinics have to provide a totally confidential service. Information will not be passed to your GP, unless you request otherwise. It is also possible to use a false name and no checks will be made.