One more question

When I was tested for HIV, it was the standard antibody test.  I got my negative result back the next day.  Isn't it typical to have to wait 2 weeks before getting your results.  Is it possible that the test was unreliable? I got it done at my gp's office and there was a lab next door.  Thanks.

[Teak]

Depends on the lab and their workload. As long at your test was 3 months post exposure it is conclusive.

[bellsouth33]

Trying doing a RNA test.  This test will tell you for sure if you are positive or not within 15 days from exposure.  Its very expensive.  Its the type of test Blood Banks use when you donate blood.  Its one of the most sensative test created to help reduce the risk og HIV through blood transfusion.

[Confused1530]

Thanks Teak,
I have got more information from you and nursegirl than I have my own doctor.  When I told her my symptoms, she just said "You wouldn't show symptoms of HIV." (it was over 3 months after exposure).  She said your a perfectly healthy woman.  How would she know if I was healthy or not before I tested...she wouldn't!  I feel like the education system does a poor job of informing people of the actual risks associated with HIV.  I am a social worker and while I already knew the 4 ways that HIV could be spread, I still felt less than informed.  First- I though alot of clinics made people test at 3 months and 6 months just to be extra sure someone is negative.  I worked at The Center for Mental Health-the HIV division.  It's sad to think I worked there and am still uneducated but while I was there (2005), they recommended people test 6 month after exposure.  I was told there was a risk of contracting HIV if I performed oral sex on someone who was infected.  This forum said that was very unlikely or not-risky. Either way, if I wasn't with my husband anymore, I would make a guy where a condom regardless of how great the risk it was.  Eventually, I would like to educate others on this topic as this was one of my big interests in college.  I strongly agree with what you say on here.  People get so concerned with symptoms that they have, they search HIV to no avail to diagnose themselves.  Unfortunately, I have learned this from experience.  

[Confused1530]

I forgot to mention bellsouth that the test performed was done 3 months after possible exposure.  It wasn't the 3 month thing I was worried about.  More the fact that most standard blood tests take 2 weeks to get the results.  I got my negative result the next day.  Thanks