There's only one way to find out for sure whether you have HIV: Get tested. Although some people feel symptoms when they've been newly infected with HIV, most people don't. That's one reason why HIV continues to spread throughout the world: Millions of people are estimated to be living with HIV without even knowing it. That's why it's so important for everybody to get tested regularly for HIV, if they have sex or use injection drugs.
It's completely normal to get nervous, scared or even a little paranoid when you think you've put yourself at risk for HIV. An HIV test -- taken at least six weeks after the risky event -- can answer that question. Approved HIV tests are extremely reliable. There's even a saliva test you can take at many doctor's offices or clinics that will give you results in less than half an hour. (If it comes out positive, you'll need to get an even more reliable blood test, known as a Western Blot, that will confirm the results in a couple of weeks.) And don't forget, if you are at risk for HIV from sex, then you are also at risk for other sexually transmitted diseases that can be much easier to get.
If you live in the United States and are concerned about your privacy, in much of the United States, especially in cities, there are clinics and hospitals where you can be tested for HIV completely anonymously. There are even places that will help you notify past partners if you do test positive for HIV.
It's completely normal to get nervous, scared or even a little paranoid when you think you've put yourself at risk for HIV. An HIV test -- taken at least six weeks after the risky event -- can answer that question. Approved HIV tests are extremely reliable. There's even a saliva test you can take at many doctor's offices or clinics that will give you results in less than half an hour. (If it comes out positive, you'll need to get an even more reliable blood test, known as a Western Blot, that will confirm the results in a couple of weeks.) And don't forget, if you are at risk for HIV from sex, then you are also at risk for other sexually transmitted diseases that can be much easier to get.
If you live in the United States and are concerned about your privacy, in much of the United States, especially in cities, there are clinics and hospitals where you can be tested for HIV completely anonymously. There are even places that will help you notify past partners if you do test positive for HIV.
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