This service is free and confidential. Your testing kit will arrive in the post in an unmarked envelope with a full set of instructions.
HIV and Syphilis- Finger prick blood test
Please note, when carrying out finger prick tests at home for HIV and Syphilis, there is a risk that a false reactive result can occur.
The main cause of a false reactive result is the test has detected antibodies, but they are not antibodies to HIV or Syphilis, they are antibodies to another substance or infection.
We understand that it can be upsetting receiving a reactive result. For all reactive results detected by this test, a confirmatory test will be taken to verify. This will take place by us arranging a follow up appointment in the clinic setting for a second blood sample, where you will be supported by a clinician.
Your test today may not cover recent risks, as it takes time for infections to develop. This is called the ‘window period’ or ‘incubation period’. The window periods are:
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea: 2 weeks after risk
- HIV: 6 weeks after risk
- Syphilis: 6 weeks after risk
If you have had sex within this window period, you may wish to re-test at a later date.
Your results give no indication of your partners’ sexual health. You should encourage your partner to test too.
