HIV

Medically ReviewedOften Asymptomatic

HIV can be detected as early as 10 days after exposure with our RNA PCR test, or 28 days with a standard antibody test. Early detection is crucial for starting treatment and protecting your health. Modern HIV treatment is highly effective - people on treatment can live normal lifespans and cannot transmit the virus.

HIV: Key Facts

Often Asymptomatic
Incubation Period
2-4 weeks (acute symptoms)
Test Window
10 days (RNA PCR) / 28 days (antibody)
Results
24-48 hours
Treatment
Antiretroviral therapy (ART)
Book HIV Test – £125

Results within 24 hours • Same-day treatment available

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of HIV

Common Symptoms

  • Flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after infection
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Rash
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Many people have no symptoms for years
Next step

Book a same-day HIV test

Consultation, examination, testing and treatment at our Harley Street clinic. Most results within 24 hours.

How It Spreads

How is HIV Transmitted?

  • Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
  • Sharing needles
  • From mother to baby (without treatment)
  • Blood transfusion (rare in UK)
Stay Protected

Prevention

  • Use condoms consistently
  • PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)
  • Regular testing
  • Don't share needles
  • PEP within 72 hours of potential exposure
If Untreated

Complications if Untreated

  • Without treatment, HIV progresses to AIDS
  • Opportunistic infections
  • Certain cancers
  • With treatment, people live normal lifespans
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Dr Mohammad Bakhtiar
Medically Reviewed

Dr Mohammad Bakhtiar

MD, PhD, LRCP, MSc, DHMSA

Sexual Health

GMC: 4694470Last reviewed: July 2026

All medical content is reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).

Complete Service

Don't just test. Get treated. Our experienced Harley Street doctors can examine, diagnose, and prescribe treatment on the spot. We offer Consultations, Examinations, Testing and Treatment all under one roof.

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Book a same-day HIV test

Consultation, examination, testing and treatment at our Harley Street clinic. Same-day appointments and walk-ins welcome.

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-2pm. Walk-ins welcome.