🧪 HIV only detectable by test
An HIV test can clarify whether an infection is present.
⏱️ Note the test time
The significance depends on the distance to the potential risk contact.
📅 Different time windows depending on the test
When a result is reliable depends on the respective test method.
🔄 Partly anonymous and free of charge
Depending on the service, HIV tests are available anonymously and free of charge.
What is an HIV test - and how does it work?
An HIV test clarifies whether you are infected with the HI virus (HIV). It is important because it gives you clarity, protects your partners and you can start treatment early if the result is positive.
There are various test forms:
- Laboratory test („4th generation“): Blood sample taken in practice or test centre, analysis in the laboratory.
- Rapid test on site: e.g. at an advice centre or health authority, result often within minutes.
- Self-test (test kit for home use): You carry out the test yourself - if the result is positive or unclear: confirmation in the laboratory is necessary.
- In special cases: Qualitative PCR or test early after high-risk contact - arranged by a doctor.
When do HIV tests provide reliable results?
Not every test can make a 100 1TP3 statement immediately after a risk contact. This is due to the so-called „diagnostic gap“.
Examples of time windows:
- Laboratory test (4th generation, antigen + antibody): often from approx. 6 weeks very reliable after contact.
- Rapid test: only after 12 weeks.
PCR: Can indicate very early, e.g. in high-risk cases, but not usually recommended as the sole routine diagnosis.
Test optionsn
- Practices: General practitioner:in or HIV focal practice
- Health authorities / testing centres / AIDS service organisations
- Pharmacy / Online: Self-tests for laboratory evaluation. Pay attention to reputable providers and the instructions for confirmation in the event of a positive result.
| Place | Offer |
|---|---|
| General practitioner's practice / HIV speciality practice | HIV tests with medical counselling, blood sampling and medical classification of the results. |
| Health authority / test centre / AIDS service organisation | Depending on the service, anonymous or free HIV tests, often with additional counselling. |
| Pharmacy / Online | HIV self-tests or sample kits are available. Reactive results must always be confirmed by another test. |
Test anonymously and free of charge
Many test centres offer anonymous and free of charge HIV tests on
In surgeries, health insurance often covers the costs - especially in the case of risk contact or symptoms
Online test options
Online or home tests offer discretion:
- You order a test kit or sample submission kit.
- Result mostly online or by telephone.
If the result is positive/unclear: confirmation in the laboratory and counselling on site.
Important: If the risk is very recent or if there is uncertainty - a test centre or contact with a doctor is recommended.
Frequently asked questions about HIV tests (FAQ)
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the HIV test
An HIV test detects antibodies and antigens against HIV in the blood. The laboratory test (4th generation) combines both detections and is considered to be particularly reliable. Rapid and self-tests only detect antibodies and are reliable after 12 weeks.
A laboratory HIV test (4th generation) delivers 6 weeks a very reliable result after a possible risk. HIV rapid tests and self-tests are available from 12 weeks safe.
Yes, you can register at health centres and checkpoints. Anonymous and often free of charge test - without giving your name.
In many health centres and checkpoints, the test is free or inexpensive. In doctors' surgeries, health insurance companies cover the costs if there is reasonable suspicion or symptoms. HIV self-tests usually cost between 20 and 30 euros.
An HIV self-test is a quick test that you can carry out at home. The result is available after 15-30 minutes. Important: If the result is positive or unclear, a Confirmation test in the laboratory follow.
The 4th generation HIV test recognises both antibodies and antigens (p24 protein). This makes it more reliable - just 6 weeks after a risk.
