🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Instant HIV Test

Price
£65

Turnaround

60 seconds

Professional

Doctor

Find Out More

4.9
4.9/5
4.7
4.7/5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

pound iconPrice: £65

Turnaround: 60 seconds

Professional: Doctor

Check for HIV antibodies

Our instant HIV test checks for HIV antibodies in the blood, which are produced by the immune system when it is fighting the virus. The speed of this test allows you to avoid a stressful waiting period.

Additionally, it is better suited for quickly detecting HIV in cases of recent possible exposure.

HIV Overview

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus (meaning it uses reverse transcription to convert its RNA into DNA inside a host cell) that targets the immune system. The virus is transmitted via sexual contact, sharing of needles and in-utero between mother and child.

The final stage of HIV infection is AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which develops in HIV-positive people who can no longer fight a series of diseases as their immune system has become too weak.

Ways HIV Spreads

HIV can be transmitted through various bodily fluids of an infected person, including blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.

Having unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person, and sharing needles, syringes, or other injection equipment with someone who is HIV-positive can transmit the virus. An HIV-positive mother can also transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, delivery, or through breastfeeding.

doctor
Woman doctor taking notes

Who Should Get Tested?

HIV testing is recommended for the following individuals:

  • Sexually Active Individuals: Those who have had unprotected sex with multiple partners or with someone whose HIV status they do not know.
  • People With An HIV-Positive Partner: Regular testing is advised to monitor and maintain their own HIV-negative status.
  • Individuals Who Inject Drugs: Sharing needles or other injection equipment increases the risk of HIV transmission.
  • People With Hepatitis Or Tuberculosis (TB): Co-infections are common, and those with these conditions should get tested for HIV.
  • Pregnant Women: To prevent mother-to-child transmission, it is recommended that all pregnant women get tested for HIV early in their pregnancy. Repeat testing in the third trimester may be recommended for those at high risk.
  • Individuals Who Have Been Sexually Assaulted: Post-assault, testing for HIV is crucial, and immediate medical attention can include prophylactic treatment to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Healthcare Workers With Occupational Exposure: After a potential exposure to HIV through needlesticks or other incidents, testing and prophylactic treatment are important.

Instant HIV Test Benefits

The Instant HIV Test is a rapid screening tool for HIV, providing results within 60 seconds. This test is crucial in scenarios where immediate results are necessary, such as in emergency medical settings or for individuals seeking quick peace of mind.

These instant tests play a massive role in early detection of HIV, allowing for prompt initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can significantly improve health outcomes, reduce the risk of HIV transmission, and enhance quality of life.

Woman doctor pointing
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Post-Test Support

If you test positive for HIV, taking prompt and appropriate steps is crucial for managing your health and reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

  • Start ART (antiretroviral therapy) as soon as possible.
  • Take your HIV medications exactly as prescribed.
  • Attend all scheduled medical appointments to monitor your health and treatment progress.
  • Inform your sexual partners and anyone with whom you have shared needles so they can get tested and seek treatment if necessary.
  • Seek emotional support. Talking to a counselor or joining a support group can help you cope with the emotional aspects of an HIV diagnosis.

Other HIV Tests Available

A consultation with a doctor is included in all of our sexual health tests to discuss the most suitable testing based on your circumstances.

We offer several HIV testing options:

  • Instant HIV test which provides a result within 60 seconds.
  • HIV I & II antibody and p24 antigen blood test with results arriving in 4 to 6 working hours.
  • Multiplex PCR testing is the most precise method for detecting early HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C with results ready in 3 – 7 working days.

Besides HIV there is a wide range of other sexually transmitted infections. If you have had unprotected sex we strongly suggest getting a general sexual health screening.

Doctor with stethoscope

Statistics​

rise in STI cases among 15-24-year-olds since 2021
0 %
increase in gonorrhoea since 2021
0 %
increase in chlamydia since 2021
0
increase in syphilis since 2021
0 %

Preventing HIV

The most recent estimate is that 106 890 people are living with HIV in the UK, and about 39 million people are living with HIV worldwise. Here is how to prevent contracting this disease:

  • Use Condoms: Consistently use latex or polyurethane condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Condoms are highly effective when used correctly.
  • Limit Number of Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners lowers the risk of exposure to HIV.
  • Get Tested and Know Your Partner’s Status: Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) helps ensure that both you and your partner are aware of your HIV status.
  • Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Taking PrEP, a daily pill for people at high risk of HIV, can significantly reduce the chance of infection.
  • Emergency Prevention: If you believe you have been exposed to HIV, taking PEP within 72 hours can reduce the risk of infection. PEP involves taking antiretroviral medicines for 28 days.
  • Use Sterile Needles: Always use a new, sterile needle and syringe if you inject drugs. Many communities offer needle exchange programs.
  • Seek Help For Substance Use: If you inject drugs, consider seeking support and treatment for substance use.
  • Avoid Breastfeeding: HIV-positive mothers should use formula feeding instead of breastfeeding if safe alternatives are available.

How To Book A Sexual Health Screen Appointment?

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

Choose your test type

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

No special preparation is needed for an HIV test. For optimal accuracy, it is recommended to wait at least 12 weeks after potential exposure before getting tested. This waiting period allows enough time for the body to produce antibodies to HIV, which the test detects.

during the appointment

Appointment

This test involves taking a small drop of blood from the tip of your finger, which may cause a very slight prick sensation. This blood sample is then used for testing purposes to determine your HIV status.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

During the consultation, you will receive the result of the HIV test. This ensures that you have immediate access to your status and allows for any necessary follow-up discussions or actions based on the outcome of the test.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic For
Sexual Health Screening?

Incorporated
in 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team

Registration
not needed

Up-to-date with the latest treatments & testing

Strictly
confidential

Experienced doctors & a professional team

Affordable private
health care

Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges

testimonials​

pricing

No hidden charges, phlebotomy fees or prescription charges.
Test prices do not include a consultation.

Instant HIV test

  • 60 seconds turnover time

HIV antibody and P24 antigen

  • Most accurate 6 weeks from exposure
  • 4-12 hours turnover time

HIV-1 RNA, fast early detection

  • Most accurate 10 days from exposure
  • 4-6 hours turnover time

see other Sexual Health services

Book Your GP Appointment Today

Fast, affordable, high-quality GP and medical testing services with same-day appointments.

Specialist Medical Team

We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.

fAQ

What is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus attacking the body’s immune system. People infected with HIV may not have any symptoms for 10 or more years.
What is AIDS?
AIDS is a late stage of HIV infection. In this stage human body is no longer able to fight a range of diseases.
Is there a cure for HIV or AIDS?
No, there is no cure for HIV or AIDS. However, medicines that fight HIV can provide HIV positive patients with nearly normal life expectancy. In this case it is important to find out about the infection as soon as possible. Early detection is the biggest indicator of better prognosis.

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