HIV and Aids
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that destroys the body's immune system.
An HIV infection can initially be without symptoms. An infected person can unknowingly infect other people.
The HIV virus can be contracted through vaginal or anal sexual intercourse, if condoms are not used or if the condom breaks. The virus can also be contracted through unprotected oral sex and through blood contact.
HIV tests
Only a blood test can reliably tell you if you have been infected with HIV.
The blood sample is used to search for antibodies of the virus, which are created after about three months. If you suspect you are infected then you need to wait three months from the last possible occasion when you could have been infected, in order for the test results to be reliable.
Positive test result
A positive result of an HIV test means that HIV antibodies were found in the blood sample.
If the test is positive it indicates that you have been infected with HIV, but this result will be confirmed with further tests.
Negative test result
If the HIV test result is negative there were no HIV antibodies found in the blood sample.
But remember that it takes three months for antibodies to be created in the blood and to be seen in a blood test. A negative result means that there were no antibodies in your blood at the time of the test.
Sex workers can get tested for HIV by Pro Centre Finland in Helsinki and Tampere free of charge and anonymously.
It is advisable to always practise safer sex regardless of whether you are HIV-negative or HIV-positive, or whether you have had an HIV test or not.
More information about HIV, testing and medical treatment can be found on the following pages:
