
The only way to really know if you have HIV, AIDS, or another STI is to get tested. Don’t let anxiety stop you! If you feel uneasy about getting tested, remember that:
[ HIV Testing Overview ][ Getting Tested ][ Anonymous Testing ]
[ Protecting Yourself and Others ][ Getting Your Test Results ][ Find More Information ]
HIV testing:
Pre-Test Counselling
Before your HIV test you will speak with a healthcare practitioner about the test, what the results mean, and what your risks might be. This is called "pre-test counselling”.
Ways to Get Tested
There are different ways to get tested for HIV. At Peel Public Health Sexuality clinics, we offer:
No health card is required for any type of HIV testing at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic and the service is free.
When to Get Tested
Getting accurate results depends on the time of your last possible exposure to HIV (unprotected sex, needle sharing). It takes approximately 3 months for HIV antibodies to show up on an HIV test, this is called the window period. If you have ever had a risky experience such as unprotected vaginal or anal sex or ever shared needles with someone, it’s a good idea to be tested for HIV. It is important to remember though that if you have unprotected sex or shared needles within the last three months, the healthcare practitioner will test you today and recommend that you return for repeat testing to ensure that you have waited long enough for the test to be completely accurate.
Making an Appointment
When you’re ready to get tested, make an appointment with your family physician or drop in to a Peel Healthy Sexuality Clinic near you .
Anonymous testing in Peel is offered at Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinics (not at your family physician’s office or walk-in where you need to use your health card).
If you choose anonymous testing:
Regardless of your test results you should always prevent the spread of STIs , HIV and Hepatitis B by:
If your blood is sent to the Public Health Lab it will take approximately 2-3 weeks for your test results to come back. You can call the clinic 2 weeks after your test to get the results.
If Your Test is Negative…
If Your Test is Positive…
For more information about HIV/AIDS testing, contact: