There are several stages of HIV disease. The first HIV symptoms may include swollen glands in the throat, armpit, or groin. Other early HIV symptoms include a slight fever, headaches, fatigue, and muscle aches. These symptoms may last for only a few weeks. Then, there are usually no HIV symptoms for many years. That is why it can be hard to know if you have HIV.
HIV Testing
Planned Parenthood offers HIV testing by blood draw with results available in seven to 10 business days. HIV counseling referral services and treatment referral services are also available. Counseling and confidential testing for HIV are provided by trained staff who are sensitive to your needs and concerns.
Make an Appointment
Or call 1-800-230-7526
Symptoms of HIV
Planned Parenthood also offers Rapid HIV Testing
A rapid test can use an oral swab or blood from a vein or finger prick. The results take as little as 20 minutes. If the rapid test results show a person has HIV, the results will need to be confirmed with a follow up test.
HIV causes AIDS
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It breaks down the immune system, our body's protection against disease. HIV causes people to become sick with infections that normally wouldn't affect them. AIDS is short for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is the most advanced stage of the HIV disease.
In the United States, more than 980,000 cases of AIDS have been reported to the government. About 40,000 women and men in the United States get HIV each year.
The Spread of HIV
HIV is transmitted in blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common ways HIV to spread include:
- having vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom with someone who has HIV/AIDS
- sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV/AIDS
- being deeply punctured with a needle or surgical instrument contaminated with HIV
- getting HIV-infected blood, semen, or vaginal secretions into open wounds or sores
- babies born to women with HIV/AIDS can get HIV from their mothers during birth or from breastfeeding.
HIV is not transmitted by simple casual contact such as kissing, sharing drinking glasses, or hugging.
Why It's Important to Get Tested
The good news is we can protect ourselves and each other from HIV and STDs. Practicing safe sex allows you to reduce your risk. Also if you've done anything that puts you at risk of infection, getting tested allows you to get any treatments you may need.
Besides HIV, we also test for the following STDs:
What We Also Test For
HIV Prevention in the form of PrEP
Pre-exposure prophylaxis, also known as PrEP, is a daily pill that can reduce your chances of getting HIV by 92 percent. PrEP does not work if you're already HIV positive. PrEP may be right for you if you have unprotected anal and/or vaginal sex, have a partner who is HIV positive, engage in sex work, use intravenous drugs and/or share needles. Book your appointment today to see if PrEP is right for you.
Book an Appointment
Or call 1-800-230-7526