To start, it’s recommended that everyone get tested for HIV. This is especially important if you think you might have been exposed to HIV.
In term of when you should get tested...You may have heard a term called a 'window period' when it comes to HIV transmission and testing. A ‘window period’ is the amount of time it takes after infection for a test to give you an accurate result. Even with this 'window period' in mind, it's important you do not put off getting tested if you think you might have been exposed to HIV.
Overall, if you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it's important to talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
- Jake, H-I-V.net Team
Alafia (Peace) I would encourage everyone to get tested and know their HIV status. We may not be fully aware of the sexual history of our former and current sexual partners.
You should get tested for HIV fisrt off if you have never been tested. Second if you are having unprotected sex and once you do get tested and the results are negative that does not mean have unprotected sex. Make sure you continue to use protection.
Alafia (Peace) Dee, You are spot on regarding testing. I am sure you can share stories of women who were economically dependent on someone else and for that reason will not asked for condom use. This may also be the case with intimate partner violence and youth.
