The HIV test is a simple blood test that tells you whether or not you are HIV positive (infected with HIV).  HIV testing is voluntary.  You cannot be forced to take an HIV test.

Consider getting tested if you, or your partner(s) have ever:

• had sex without a condom - you can't tell if someone has HIV unless they've been tested;
• had sex while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as you might not have used protection;
• shared needles or syringes to inject drugs (or other drug equipment: water, cotton filters, cookers, pipes, straws);
• had tattooing, piercing, or acupuncture without sterilized equipment; and/or
• had a blood transfusion or other blood products before November 1986.

Why get tested?

To find out your HIV status.

• If you are HIV positive, you can get early treatment to stay healthy, get treatment to reduce the chances of your baby getting HIV if you are pregnant, as well as take precautions to not give HIV to others.
• If you are HIV negative, you can experience less stress and anxiety because you will know your status, and you will learn more about how to reduce your risk of becoming infected.

What happens when I'm tested?

A small amount of blood will be taken from your arm.  It usually takes two to three weeks to find out the results.

Where do I get tested?

Get tested at a health centre, Sexual Health Clinic, or by your doctor.  Depending on where you live, you may have a choice as to how you are tested:

Anonymous testing - is available through special clinics in many areas and allows you to be tested without telling anyone your name.

Non-nominal testing - your name is not included on the test forms.  Only you and your doctor will know the results.

Nominal testing - your name is written on the test forms.  Anyone seeing the forms will know your identity and test results.

With both non-nominal and nominal testing, your test result will be recorded in your medical chart and cannot be deleted.

Call your health department or local AIDS organization for information on testing choices in your area.

When?

HIV antibodies may not appear in your blood until 14 weeks after infection.  Get tested 14 weeks after the last time you put yourself at risk.

Whether you think you are infected or not, practice safer sex, and do not share injecting equipment.

If you have more questions, call the 
Sexual Health Clinic
10 Hospital Drive, Peterborough, ON  K9J 8M1
at 
748-2021
or the 
AIDS - Sexual Health Infoline at
1-800-668-2437