Does STI screening treat HIV infection?

An HIV test looks for signs of infection in a sample, often blood. The result may need interpretation based on the test used and the time since a possible exposure. A reactive screening result is not the same as a final diagnosis; follow-up testing is used to clarify it.

If HIV is confirmed, a specialist team offers antiretroviral treatment and monitoring. These medicines reduce the amount of virus in the body and protect the immune system, but screening itself has no treatment effect. HIV can be present without symptoms, so testing is the way to investigate a possible exposure.

Discuss the result privately with a qualified clinician and follow the advised confirmatory pathway. If exposure was recent, ask whether the test needs repeating and whether urgent preventive treatment is appropriate. Use condoms or other barrier protection until you have clear medical advice, and do not share needles or injection equipment.

A confirmed diagnosis should lead to a treatment appointment, medication review, and support with partner notification. Take prescribed medicine consistently and tell the team about pregnancy, other conditions, and all medicines or supplements.

Seek urgent advice after a recent possible exposure because some preventive options are time-sensitive. Obtain prompt care for severe illness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly worsening condition. A reactive result needs timely follow-up even when you feel well.

Ask what type of test was used, whether confirmatory testing is needed, when to repeat testing, whether prevention after exposure is suitable, and how treatment and confidentiality will be managed.