GET TESTED

If I think I have been exposed to HIV, how soon can I get tested?

To find out when you should be tested, discuss it with your health care provider. The tests commonly used to detect HIV infection actually look for antibodies produced by your body to fight HIV. Most people will develop detectable antibodies within 3 months after infection, the average being 20 days. In rare cases, it can take up to 6 months. During the time between exposure and the test, it is important to avoid any behavior that might put you at risk for HIV. If you do engage in risky behavior during this time, you should get tested again.