Confidential HIV Test Chester

People can live with HIV with no noticeable signs or symptoms for a number of years. If they do not have a test in this time, then this period with no treatment can cause lasting damage to the immune system.

If you think you might be at risk of HIV, thenyou should get tested.  The earlier HIV is detected, the more likely it is that the treatment will be effective. You can get tested for HIV at our private clinics near Chester. Better2Know as a test which provides accurate results just ten days after exposure.

Better2Know offers a discreet, confidential, and anonymous service.  We have clean, modern facilities, which are Care Quality Commission approved. Our staff are friendly and non-judgmental.  So any appointment is straightforward and as easy as possible.

The HIV tests require a small blood sample.  This is sent to the UK’s leading Laboratory the same day for highly accurate testing and fast results.

There are two tests available:

  • 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 onlytest.
  • HIV 10 Day PCR RNA Test. This test provides accurate HIV testing results for possible exposures that occurred at least ten days ago. While it is slightly less accurate than HIV DUO testing, it can give peace of mind earlier.  It should be followed up at 28 days with a DUO test. The results for this HIV test take three working days to come back from the laboratory.

How is HIV Transmitted?

HIV is transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids.  This can occur with any unprotected oral, vaginal or anal penetrative sex, with someone who is HIV positive.  Sharing needles/ syringes with a HIV infected person, is a highly risky activity.

It is also possible to be infected with HIV through blood transfusions. This is quite rare in western countries, as blood products are now routinely screened.

The symptoms of a HIV infection can include:

  • High fever
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Rash
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain

These symptoms are a sign that the body is trying to fight off an infection. They are common in many illnesses. Therefore only way to tell if  they are a symptom of HIV is to get tested.

What happens if I test positive?

If you test positive, do not worry, we are here to help you. Your Better2Know doctor will refer you to a specialist.  The Terrence Higgins Trust can provide any support and advice you need. They are experts with over 30 years of experience of providing advice and have over 30 centres nationwide.