HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis test
HIV test · hepatitis test · STI blood test · pre-surgery infection screening
A blood test from a vein that looks for signs of these infections. One tube is usually enough for all four.
Before surgery, during pregnancy, before donating blood, at a checkup, or after a risky situation.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes 3 to 5 minutes. Results usually take 1 to 5 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. It is usually best to come fasting, or 4 to 6 hours after a light meal. Check with the lab. Water is fine.
- Timing after a risk. The test may not find an infection in the first weeks. It is usually done after 3 to 6 weeks and repeated after 3 months. Your doctor will tell you when.
- Privacy. Your result is confidential. In many places, you can get an HIV test anonymously and for free.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID, if the test is not anonymous
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tied on your arm, and the skin is cleaned with antiseptic
- A quick prick, and blood fills the tube
- The needle is removed, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- You get the result in person or through your doctor
- A first positive test is not a diagnosis. It is always checked with another test
Contact a doctor straight away if
- If you were at risk of HIV less than 72 hours ago, see a doctor or an HIV center right away. There are medicines that help prevent infection
Common questions
How long after a risk should I get an HIV test?
Modern tests usually detect HIV after 3 to 6 weeks. To be sure, the test is repeated after 3 months.
Can the result be a false positive?
Yes, for example during pregnancy or with other illnesses. That is why every positive result is checked with a second test.
Can I get an HIV test anonymously?
Yes. Many clinics and HIV centers offer it anonymously and for free. No ID is needed.