Living with HIV in the Philippines: When To Take the HIV Test?

I have received a lot of emails and text messages telling me symptoms that they see and feel that maybe HIV related. A lot are asking and comparing symptoms from what they are reading from the internet to what they are experiencing.

How Would I Know if I have HIV?

Please understand that HIV has non specific symptoms. This simply means that HIV CAN NOT be diagnosed based on what you are feeling or experiencing. HIV can ONLY be diagnosed by the HIV Test alone. Period.

I have talked to a lot of people for 2 years now who both have symptoms and without symptoms and both groups have HIV. This explains my point that one can NOT be diagnosed with HIV based on symptoms alone. The HIV test is the only tool wherein one can be diagnosed with HIV and nothing else. The HIv test is very specific to testing the presence of HIv antibodies in your bodies that are produced by our body in reaction to HIV itself.

Am I at Risk?

1. If you had unprotected sex with a person of unknown HIV status, then you are a candidate for HIV testing.
2. If you had STI's or STD's before, you are a candidate for HIV testing.
3. If you had shared needles during drug sessions, you are a candidate for HIv testing.
4. If you had oral sex while having open wounds in your mouth or mouth sores, you are a candidate for HIV Testing.

When is the Best Time to Take the HIV Test?

1. Take the test immediately. The HIV test can detect HIV antibodies anytime to 3 months post exposure.
2. Taking the HIV test immediately clears also previous exposures that a person may have forgotten to consider.
3. Taking the test immediately, is taking responsibility fast, and will make one to relax for the follow up tests.
4. HIV test is done at 3 months and at 6 months post exposure here in the Philippines to be absolutely sure.
5. Do not wait for symptoms. Take the HIV test fast.

I Have HIV Related Symptoms. What should I do?

1. Consult an infectious disease doctor.
2. Go to the Emergency Room of the hospital and have your symptoms checked.
3. Take the HIV test while getting consulted with your symptoms. HIV treatment and treatment of infections are two different processes.

I am scared!

1. Being scared won't do you any good.
2. Don't think anymore. Don't research about symptoms. If you think you are at risk, just take the test.
3. Focus on what you can contra which is your health. Be proactive and be responsible. Take the test!

Where to take the HIV Test?

HIV Testing Centers in the Philippines

HV Testing Centers in Metro Manila

RITM Satellite Clinic, Malate

Klinika Bernardo, QC

Icon Clinic, QC

I am Embarrased to Get Tested!

We have a Care Assistance Program in place. Our volunteers can assist you for FREE to the HIV testing facilities. Click the link below:

CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM