Confidential HIV Test Brighton

Better2Know offer a discreet, confidential, and anonymous service at our private Clinic in Brighton for everyone wishing to be tested for HIV.

Our facilities are modern and clean.  We have a friendly and non-judgemental team, who can assist you with taking a test with the minimum amount of fuss.

We are supported by the Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK's leading sexual health charity.  They can help you with pre and post test counselling, should you need it.

The test itself is simply a nurse taking a small blood sample.  This is then sent to a leading pathology laboratory.  The fast turnaround time means you will get your results quickly.

You can call our booking team 24 hours a day seven days a week or book online.

The HIV Test at our Brighton clinic:

  • HIV 28 Day DUO Test. Provides very accurate HIV testing results for possible exposures that occurred at least four weeks ago. Results are available the same day your sample is received in the laboratory. The HIV Duo test combines an HIV antibody and HIV antigen test.  This detects HIV infection sooner than a traditional antibody only test.

Signs and Symptoms of HIV

Many people who are infected with HIV experience flu like symptoms for a short period of time. This is a possible sign that your immune system is putting up a fight against the infection. These symptoms typically occur two to six weeks after infection.

These symptoms most commonly include:

  • Fever
  • Sore Throat
  • Body Rash

Other symptoms can include:

  • Tiredness
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Swollen glands

These symptoms are of course common in many illnesses, including colds and flu, the only way to know you have the HIV virus is to get tested.

The earlier you get tested, the better your prognosis.  With an early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, HIV is no longer the life-threatening illness it once was. 

How is HIV Transmitted?

There is a high risk of HIV transmission if you have unprotected vaginal or anal penetrative sex with someone who already has the HIV virus. It is possible, but less common, for HIV to be transmitted through oral sex.

If you share needles or syringes with someone who is HIV positive then you are also at high risk.

You can also become infected with HIV through blood transfusions.  All blood in the UK is screened, so this has become much rarer.

There is always a risk of exposure to HIV whenever there is a transfer of bodily fluids, with someone who is HIV positive.

What if I test positive for HIV?

Firstly, do not worry, we are here to help. Your Better2Know Doctor will refer you to a specialist where you can get advice and support.  We are also supported by the Terrence Higgins Trust who have been providing expert guidance to people newly diagnosed positive for over 30 years. They have a dedicated website www.myhiv.org.uk  and app where the HIV positive community can share their experiences and feelings.