What is the HIV window period?


The window period for an HIV test refers to the time between HIV exposure and when a test can detect HIV in your body. The window period depends on the type of HIV test used.


What is the window period for the HIV test I took?

  • Antibody tests can usually detect HIV 30 to 120 days after exposure. Most rapid tests and self-tests are antibody tests called as 2nd Generation Rapid Hiv Kits.

  • A rapid antigen/antibody test done with blood from a finger stick can usually detect HIV 30 to 120 days after exposure called as 3rd Generation Rapid Hiv Kits.

  • A rapid antigen/antibody test done with blood from a finger stick can usually detect HIV 10 to 120 days after exposure called as 4th Generation Rapid Hiv Kits.

  • An antigen/antibody Lab test using blood from a vein can usually detect HIV 18 to 45 days after exposure done with Elisa / PCR.

  • A nucleic acid test (NAT) can usually detect HIV 10 to 33 days after exposure.