How To Take An HIV Clinic Test

Step 1: Hold On

It might seem logical to be tested as soon as possible. But not in this case. Most doctors recommend waiting three months from the time of exposure before testing for H.I.V. That's because it takes 3 weeks to 3 months before antibodies can be detected on a test. This is called the "window period". During the window period, you have to make sure you're not exposed to HIV again, or the test may not be accurate. So take a time out, and keep playing it safe.

Step 2: Find A Site

Go online to www.hivtest.org and enter your zip code. You'll get a list of confidential HIV test locations near you.

Step 3: Just Do It

It's natural to be worried. But early detection is the first step to a healthier life.

Step 4: It's Painless

Most HIV clinic tests are free and today, many clinics don't even need to use needles or blood. New tests checks for antibodies in the mucus membranes of your mouth.

Step 5: Sign and Consent

Before you take any medical test, you have to sign a consent form. You have to also decide whether you want to take the test anonymously, meaning not give your name, or confidentially. Meaning, you'll give your name but only the doctors and counselors will receive your information. Your test and results will be given to you either way.

Step 6: The Sweep Test

The HIV counselor or nurse will open the test packet and remove the testing vial. He will then ask you to remove the test stick yourself. Place the flat pad of the stick against the outer gum of your top teeth. Then sweep across. Do it again to the outer gums of your bottom teeth. That's it!

Step 7: Stick Time

Put the stick into the test vial, making sure the flat pad touches the bottom. Now here's the hard part.

Step 8: Wait

It takes 20 minutes for your results to develop. But...it'll give you time for counseling.

Step 9: Counseling

This is your time to ask questions. It's also the counselor's time to ask you about your lifestyle, in order to talk to you about risky behavior.

Step 10: Get Results

You'll be told your results, but won't get to see your test stick. If you could see your test stick, it would look like this. The control line would be red. That means the test worked. If no other line appeared - you're HIV negative. If a second line did appear - no matter how faint, that means you could be HIV positive. If you do get a positive result, the nurse or counselor may ask you to take a second test as confirmation or he may refer you to a specialized medical clinic.