Question: Hi,I have involved in sex with the sexworker on March 6(19 days ago,I used a condom but I found it was not in intact at certain point.I am afraid og getting HIV,I want to undergo diagnosis that can confirm the result.I am confused with the Widnow periods mentioned over interent,I want to go PCR test,is it te right time or I still I am in window period
Brief Answer:
You are still in window period.PCR can be done.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM
It is necessary to confirm if you have doubt about the intactness of condom during the act.
You are still in window period so PCR is appropriate at this time.
Most HIV tests are antibody tests that measure the antibodies against HIV.It take some time for the immune system to produce enough antibodies for the antibody test to detect and this time period can vary from person to person. This time period is commonly called as the window period.Most people develops detectable antibodies within 2 to 8 weeks (the average is 25 days).
Ninety seven percent will develop antibodies in the first 3 months following the time of their infection. In very rare cases,it can take up to 6 months to develop antibodies to HIV.
PCR test(Polymerase chain reaction test) is done to test the actual virus.This test is used for testing the viral load of HIV-positive people.It is done 2-3 weeks after infection when there is enough viral material for a positive result.So,you can go for it.
You can also go for RNA test which also detects the HIV virus directly.The time gap between HIV infection and RNA detection is 9-11 days so it can also be considered but it is limited in use due to cost factor.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.
Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
What Is The HIV Test Window Period?
Brief Answer:
You are still in window period.PCR can be done.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM
It is necessary to confirm if you have doubt about the intactness of condom during the act.
You are still in window period so PCR is appropriate at this time.
Most HIV tests are antibody tests that measure the antibodies against HIV.It take some time for the immune system to produce enough antibodies for the antibody test to detect and this time period can vary from person to person. This time period is commonly called as the window period.Most people develops detectable antibodies within 2 to 8 weeks (the average is 25 days).
Ninety seven percent will develop antibodies in the first 3 months following the time of their infection. In very rare cases,it can take up to 6 months to develop antibodies to HIV.
PCR test(Polymerase chain reaction test) is done to test the actual virus.This test is used for testing the viral load of HIV-positive people.It is done 2-3 weeks after infection when there is enough viral material for a positive result.So,you can go for it.
You can also go for RNA test which also detects the HIV virus directly.The time gap between HIV infection and RNA detection is 9-11 days so it can also be considered but it is limited in use due to cost factor.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.
Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX