How can I get tested?
Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV is free, confidential and easy!
You can come to our sexual health clinics in Ninewells Hospital Dundee or Drumhar Health Centre Perth or you can use the THT Scotland postal testing service.
To book an appointment at Ninewells or Drumhar call us on 01382 425542 or use our online booking system.
To order postal STI tests click here.
To order postal HIV tests click here.
The advantages of going to a sexual health clinic are that they have more in-depth knowledge and experience about HIV and other infections.
What if the result is positive?
The postal tests are very accurate but you will be asked for another blood sample to be sure. You will be put in touch with the HIV specialists who will arrange to see you very quickly and can offer advice and information for support.
What if the result is negative?
If you’ve had unprotected sex in the last three months then we can’t be sure that you don’t have HIV. You are in what is called the “window period”. This is because it can take your body up to three months to make HIV antibodies which is what the test is looking for. So a negative test doesn’t always mean you don’t have HIV. You should have another test three months after the last time you had unprotected sex to be sure. The test is very accurate and a negative test three months after a risk means you don’t have HIV.
You should have a test once a year but you can have it more often if you need to or want to.