Testing and Services ·
The only way to know if you have HIV is to have an HIV test. Taking an HIV test can help to resolve some anxieties, and if the test shows that you have HIV, then you can begin to take action to look after your health. The sooner you go on treatment, the better the outcome for your health. If you have concerns for yourself because of risk or having multiple partners, you can access free and confidential testing at numerous venues across Scotland (see Directory) and your GP. A sample of your blood is taken and tested for HIV antibodies. It can take up to 12 weeks for HIV antibodies to show up in the blood, and therefore if you test less than 12 weeks after you were at risk, you will have to have a second test after 12 weeks to check the accuracy of the first result.
Having an HIV test will not affect current or future life insurance policies or mortgages if it is negative.
