Question: How often should gay men get tested for HIV?
Answer: HIV tests detect HIV infection by detecting antibodies produced by an individual's immune system when they are exposed to HIV. According to About.com HIV/AIDS Guide Mark Cichocki, R.N., most people will develop detectable antibodies within two to eight weeks after being exposed to the virus. The average is 25 days.
But because antibodies develop at different rates, experts recommend getting tested six weeks, three months and six months after exposure.
Mark Cichocki also recommends that everyone receive an HIV test before beginning a sexual relationship with a new partner.
Recommended Reading:
How is HIV Infection Diagnosed?
Where You Can Get An HIV Test
But because antibodies develop at different rates, experts recommend getting tested six weeks, three months and six months after exposure.
Mark Cichocki also recommends that everyone receive an HIV test before beginning a sexual relationship with a new partner.
Recommended Reading:
How is HIV Infection Diagnosed?
Where You Can Get An HIV Test
