When you think about HIV, what comes to mind? Many people may think of AIDS and the devastating effects it can have on the body, but HIV is also a very serious virus that should not be taken lightly. Did you know that there are different types of HIV tests available? If you're thinking about getting tested for HIV, or if you just want to learn more about the testing process, then keep reading.
AFC Urgent Care Boulder provides testing for HIV and all other STDs on a daily basis. Our providers can help you with resources if you receive a positive test. Visit our walk-in center seven days a week to get tested for STDs.
What is HIV, and how is it transmitted?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. The virus can be transmitted through bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy or childbirth. HIV is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing needles with someone who is infected.
There are two types of HIV: HIV-1 and HIV-2.
HIV-1 is the most common form of the virus, and it's the type that usually leads to AIDS.
HIV-2 is less common, but it's still a serious virus that can lead to HIV-related illnesses.
There are many different HIV tests available.
The most used HIV test is the antibody test, which looks for antibodies that your body produces in response to the virus.
Antibodies are proteins that help fight off infections. If you have HIV, your body will produce antibodies to the virus. The antibody test can usually detect HIV infection within 2-8 weeks after exposure.
Another type of HIV test is the nucleic acid test (NAT), which looks for the virus in your blood. NAT is usually used to screen blood donations. It can also be used to diagnose HIV infection in people who have recently been exposed to the virus. NAT is not as common as the antibody test, but it can be used to detect HIV infection earlier than the antibody test.
The NAT test can usually detect HIV infection within 10-14 days after exposure.
There are also home test kits available for HIV-1. These kits allow you to test yourself in the privacy of your own home. Home test kits are widely available, and they are usually very accurate.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV-2, you will need to get tested at a healthcare facility because the home tests do not detect it.
What does a positive HIV test result mean?
A positive result means that you have the virus in your body. This doesn't mean the disease has developed into AIDS. A positive result means that you will need to see a doctor for further testing and treatment.
What does a negative HIV test result mean?
Receiving a negative test result means that you do not have the virus in your body. However, it can take up to 3 months for the virus to show up on an HIV test, so it's important to get tested again three months after the exposure.
HIV testing is a critical step to protecting your health and the health of others. If you're thinking about getting tested, or if you just want to learn more about the process, then contact us today. AFC Urgent Care Boulder can conduct tests for HIV and help you find resources and support groups if you receive a positive test.
