What Is The Correct Window Period For An HIV Test?

Posted on Fri, 29 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 Answered on

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I was involved in risky behavior two weeks ago so that I am afraid I got STDs. I discussed this behavior previously with a doctor and he told me that there is some risk but not a high risk. I am thinking of doing HIV (early RNA detection) and HIV forth generation. In addition to hepatitis B and C.
Is two weeks considered enough window period? I read online that two weeks is enough period to detect hiv via these tests. However, for hepatitis b and c, I should wait at least one month. Is this true? What do you recommend? I am so afraid and worried and I want to do the right tests at the right times.
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You can have serologies before going for PCR

Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic! Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. We will try to help you in best way possible.

First of all, based on the history you have shared, transmission risk is very low as it's not discharge inside orifices or mucosal contact is least. For further reassurance you can have the tests done after a month of exposure for HCV and HBV and that will include serologies and not the PCR. HIV may be tested along side or even before that. Hope that it will turn out to be negative.

Hope this has answered your query, if you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee