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What Is The Window Period For An HIV Test?

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Posted on Mon, 7 Dec 2015
Question: Hi,
I ended up in an unsafe sex(without condom) last evening and would like to get sure if i have been exposed to infection.


Please suggest if going for an HIV test this week would let know if i am infected or not ?
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Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
If it is high risk like sex worker the PEP should be taken.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query. HIV tests you can do after 1 week. You can do antigen (RNA) test at this period. But sensitivity is low at this period. You have to repeat it at 2 weeks and 4 weeks again.

If the person whom you had sex with is a high risk person like sex worker then PEP (post exposure prophylaxis should be considered. This should be taken within 72 hours and for duration of 28 days. You can consult your GP or STD clinic for this.

Hope this may help you. Let me know if anything not clear.
Thanks.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Nishad BN

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 5482 Questions

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What Is The Window Period For An HIV Test?

Brief Answer: If it is high risk like sex worker the PEP should be taken. Detailed Answer: Hi Thank you for asking HCM. I have gone through your query. HIV tests you can do after 1 week. You can do antigen (RNA) test at this period. But sensitivity is low at this period. You have to repeat it at 2 weeks and 4 weeks again. If the person whom you had sex with is a high risk person like sex worker then PEP (post exposure prophylaxis should be considered. This should be taken within 72 hours and for duration of 28 days. You can consult your GP or STD clinic for this. Hope this may help you. Let me know if anything not clear. Thanks.