Confidential HIV Test Cheltenham

Better2Know offers you an anonymous, confidential and discreet service to be tested for HIV quickly in Cheltenham.

You will be seen by our discreet and friendly test, who will take a small blood sample.  This sample is then sent to our accredited laboratory.  The laboratory will give you fast, highly accurate results.

At Cheltenham, you can choose our Rapid HIV Test.  This test gives you an accurate result while you wait. The test takes 20 minutes to run. This test is appropriate for detecting HIV in any potential exposure that was over 26 days ago. 

To book your appointment: you can call our booking team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or book online.

We have three types of HIV test in Cheltenham:

  • Rapid HIV Test. Provides a highly accurate HIV test result within 20 minutes while you wait. This test is appropriate for detecting HIV exposures that have occurred more than 26 days ago.
  • HIV 28 Day DUO Test. Provides very accurate HIV testing results for possible exposures that occurred at least four weeks ago. Results are available the same day your sample is received in the laboratory. The HIV Duo test combines an HIV antibody and HIV antigen test.  This can detect an HIV infection sooner than a traditional antibody test.
  • HIV 10 Day PCR RNA Test. This test provides accurate HIV testing results for possible exposures that occurred at least ten days ago. While it is slightly less accurate than HIV DUO testing, it can give peace of mind earlier.  It should be followed up at 28 days with a DUO test. The results for this HIV test take three working days from when the sample is received in the laboratory.

Symptoms of HIV

Research, carried out by the National Aids Trust, suggests that 70% to 90% of people who are newly infected with HIV, will experience flu-like symptoms for a short period of time.  This is most often between two to six weeks after exposure to the virus. These symptoms can last up to four weeks.  They are a sign that your immune system is fighting the virus.

These symptoms most commonly include:

  • Fever (raised temperature)
  • Sore throat
  • Body rash

Other symptoms can include:

  • Tiredness
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Swollen glands

These symptoms are common in many illnesses, including colds and flu.  The only way to know you have the HIV virus is to get tested. The earlier you get tested, the better your prognosis will be.  Wth an early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, HIV is no longer the life-threatening illness it once was. 

What if I test positive for HIV?

Firstly, do not worry, we are here to help. Your Better2Know Doctor will refer you to a specialist where you can get advice and support.  We are also supported by the Terrence Higgins Trust who have been providing expert guidance to people newly diagnosed positive for over 30 years. You will be able to talk to an advisor at the Trust if you would like.