Key takeaways
- 4th-generation antigen/antibody lab tests detect most infections 18–45 days after exposure.
- A negative test inside the window period should be repeated later.
- A reactive screening result must be confirmed before any diagnosis is made.
- If exposure was within 72 hours, see a doctor immediately about PEP.
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- HIV - I & II
₹349₹49930% off
- HIV Antibody Test
₹649₹1,44955% off
- HIV p24 Antigen
₹799₹1,04924% off
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Getting tested is the only way to know your HIV status - and knowing early matters. Modern treatment lets people with HIV live long, healthy lives and, when the virus is fully suppressed, prevents transmission to partners. This guide explains the different HIV tests, when to take them, and how to get tested confidentially in Mumbai.
All HIV tests at HWP Diagnostic are handled confidentially. You can book online or by phone, and choose free home sample collection if you prefer privacy.
Types of HIV tests
| Test | What it detects | Typical window period* |
|---|---|---|
| Antibody test (e.g. rapid card, ELISA) | Antibodies your body makes against HIV | 23–90 days |
| Antigen/antibody (4th generation) | p24 antigen of the virus + antibodies | 18–45 days |
| p24 antigen test | A viral protein that appears early | Early infection |
| Nucleic acid test (RNA PCR) | The virus's genetic material itself | 10–33 days |
*Window periods are approximate ranges drawn from public-health guidance for lab tests; most people will test positive within these ranges, but a few take longer.
At HWP Diagnostic you can book the HIV I & II test (₹349), the HIV antibody test (₹649), the HIV p24 antigen (₹799) or a qualitative HIV RNA PCR for early detection.
What is the window period?
The window period is the time between possible exposure and when a test can reliably detect HIV. If you test too early, the result can be negative even though infection has occurred. That is why:
- If your test is negative but it was taken within the window period, repeat it after the window period ends.
- If you had a possible exposure in the last 72 hours, see a doctor or hospital immediately about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - it works best when started as early as possible.
Who should get tested?
- Anyone who has had unprotected sex or a new sexual partner.
- People with a partner who has HIV or whose status is unknown.
- Anyone who has shared needles or had a needle-stick injury.
- Pregnant women, as part of routine antenatal screening.
- People diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection, tuberculosis or hepatitis.
- Before marriage or when starting a new relationship - see our STD screening panels.
Understanding your result
Non-reactive (negative)
No HIV was detected. If the test was taken after the window period and you have had no new exposure since, you can generally consider yourself HIV-negative.
Reactive (positive screening)
A reactive screening result is not a diagnosis on its own. It must be confirmed with further testing. Stay calm and consult a doctor - in India, government Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) provide free confirmatory testing and counselling, and antiretroviral treatment is available free of charge through ART centres.
Preparation and privacy
No fasting is needed. The test uses a small blood sample. Your report is shared only with you, and our team treats every HIV test with complete discretion. Call 84250 40353 if you would like to ask anything before booking.
Book these tests at home
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HIV - I & II
- Report in 24 hrs
- Free home collection
HIV Antibody Test
- Report in 24 hrs
- Free home collection
HIV p24 Antigen
- Report in 24 hrs
- Free home collection
HIV RNA Detection by RT_PCR (Qualitative)
- Report in 48 hrs
- Free home collection
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Get more from the same visit
Health packages that already include these tests, and tests people usually add.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after exposure can an HIV test detect infection?
It depends on the test. Lab-based antigen/antibody (4th generation) tests detect most infections 18–45 days after exposure, antibody-only tests 23–90 days, and nucleic acid (PCR) tests about 10–33 days. A negative test inside the window period should be repeated.
Is my HIV test result confidential?
Yes. HIV test results are strictly confidential and are shared only with you. You can book discreetly online or by phone and choose home sample collection.
Does a reactive HIV screening test mean I have HIV?
Not necessarily. A reactive screening result must be confirmed with additional tests before a diagnosis is made. Speak to a doctor or an ICTC counsellor for confirmation and support.
Do I need to fast for an HIV test?
No fasting or special preparation is required.
HWP Diagnostic Editorial Team
Health guides written by the team at HWP Diagnostic, Mumbai, to help you understand your tests before you book. This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice - reference ranges vary between labs, so always discuss your results with your doctor. Read our editorial policy. Photos: Pexels.
