When is STI screening recommended for HIV infection?

HIV can be present without obvious symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your status. Testing may use blood or another approved sample, and the clinician will explain the window period: a test taken soon after exposure may need repeating because markers take time to appear.

A positive screening result requires confirmatory testing before a diagnosis is made. If HIV is confirmed, specialist care and treatment can protect health and reduce the chance of passing the virus to others. Other STI tests may be offered because infections can occur together.

Arrange confidential testing after condomless sex, a shared needle exposure, sexual assault, or a partner diagnosis. Tell the service when the exposure occurred and whether it involved vaginal, anal, or oral sex, blood, or needles. Ask whether urgent post-exposure medicine is relevant; it is time-sensitive and must be assessed promptly.

Seek urgent medical advice immediately after a recent exposure that could transmit HIV, because post-exposure treatment may only be useful when started quickly. Go to emergency care for sexual assault, severe illness, or symptoms such as confusion, breathing difficulty, or collapse. Do not wait for symptoms before arranging testing.

Ask which test is suitable, whether the timing requires repeat testing, whether post-exposure treatment or prevention is relevant, which other STI tests are advised, and how results will be communicated confidentially.