It’s never been easier to get an HIV test! Most doctor’s offices and health clinics provide testing for HIV, as well as other STIs. Testing is often free or low cost.
Don’t like needles? Ask about oral swab or finger stick tests. Rapid HIV tests provide results in under 20 minutes, some as fast as one minute. Home HIV tests can also be purchased at many drugstores.
While HIV testing is recommended as a part of routine health care, that doesn’t mean it automatically happens. To know for sure, ask your health care provider to be tested and then follow up for the results. They can also advise on how frequently you should be tested.
Annual testing may be recommended depending on your risk. Some populations have been more affected by HIV than others. In these cases, more frequent HIV testing, every 3-4 months, may be recommended.
Women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should get tested as early as possible. Treatment can prevent passing HIV to the baby.
Get answers to frequently-asked-questions about HIV testing! Who should get tested? How often? What types of tests are available? How soon results are available? And more!
Why I Get Tested
HIV testing is recommended as part of routine healthcare. But that doesn’t mean it automatically happens. To know for sure, ask to be tested!
Real people share their HIV testing experiences.