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Testing for HIV is done by testing your body for antibodies to HIV, substances produced by your body in response to HIV infection. Years ago, the only type of test available for HIV was a traditional blood test.

Today, advances in medicine have led to a number of different options for testing for HIV.

Traditional blood tests—these tests have been around since 1985. They are available in almost every doctor's office or clinic, and they are pretty inexpensive and are sometimes offered for free. There are some disadvantages to these tests. Some people do not like to get their blood taken. Taking blood from certain patients, like those with hemophilia or other blood disorders, can cause a number of health problems. You will also have to wait for a lab to return the results. People who are afraid of needles or have medical conditions like hemophilia can opt for a version of this test that uses saliva or urine. These tests can tell if you are HIV+ 3 to 6 months after you have been infected with HIV

Home blood tests—these tests are the same as the traditional blood tests, but the blood is collected by you at home and mailed into a lab. These tests have the same disadvantages due to the need to draw blood. There are additional disadvantages as well. These tests are expensive ($30.00-$50.00) and getting results over the phone can be very difficult. However, these tests are usually accurate, and for people who do not feel comfortable going to a doctor or a clinic, these tests prevent the need to have a face-to-face meeting with a doctor or nurse

Rapid antibody tests—these are also called SUDS tests These tests can be done with saliva or urine, and the results are ready in your doctor's office within 15 to 30 minutes. The major disadvantage to SUDS tests is that there is a possibility of false positives. In other words, if you do test HIV+ using a saliva or urine SUDS test, you may not be HIV+. You will still need to wait for traditional blood test results to confirm the initial SUDS test results. These tests can tell you if you are HIV+ 6 months after you are infected with HIV

Health experts suggest that you get tested for HIV every 6 months. If you think that you may be HIV+ or would just like to get tested, click here to find a testing center near you!