For and against HIV tests

Having an HIV test can have a big impact on you, whatever the result. The decision to have a test is one that only you can make, and should only make after thinking about the arguments for and against HIV testing.

You shouldn’t feel under pressure to have an HIV test from other people, like your partner, family, friends, employers or medical staff. The result could affect your life in a major way. Here are some things to think about before you decide.

Good things about testing

The main thing about having an HIV test is that you will know for sure whether or not you have HIV, and won't have to worry any more about this unknown factor in your life. 

If your result is negative you will have peace of mind. And if you know you have HIV you can start to benefit straightaway from anti-HIV drugs that can keep you well for many years. If you don’t have an HIV test it could take years before your symptoms lead you to discover you are infected. By this time your immune system could have been badly damaged and you risk falling dangerously ill.

Knowing your HIV status also means you can make better decisions about:

• your future
• your sex life.

For example, finding out that you definitely don't have HIV might signal a new start in your life, as well as helping you to stick to safer sex or to decide whether to use condoms in your relationship. A positive test result might motivate you to look after your health more or rethink what you want from life, as well as helping you not to pass on HIV to anyone else.

If you are not a British citizen but are applying to stay in the UK, your test result will not count against you, whatever the result.

Not-so-good things about testing

There are some things about having an HIV test that aren't so good:

• If your result is positive you may find this very stressful and your quality of life might suffer. 
• If others know you have HIV you might get bad reactions or feel that you are being talked about, although many people get good reactions too.
• You may face restrictions on travelling, working abroad or emigrating; for example, it can be difficult for those living with HIV who want to visit the US.
• If you have had a positive HIV test result it can be difficult, although not impossible, to get life insurance and/or a mortgage.
• People who take risks with their sexual health and still get a negative result might be encouraged to think that they can keep taking risks and stay uninfected.

If you are prepared for these in advance, they can make it easier to take the decision to have a test, and deal with the after-effects.

Whatever you decide we're here to support you and help you reach that decision - you can find out more about testing options here.