Getting Tested for HIV

OraQuick Advance is an HIV antibody test that requires a small collection of a mucousal sample to detect HIV antibodies. OraQuick Advance checks for HIV antibodies, not the actual virus.

A trained professional (your tester) will have you swab your mouth with a padded device. The device is then transferred to a vial where it is mixed with a developing solution. During the testing and counseling session you will have the opportunity to discuss your risk for HIV, get your questions answered and receive referrals for other services related to your sexual health if needed.

When testing for HIV keep in mind the "window period" that exists between the time of infection and the time antibodies to HIV are detectable in blood, plasma or serum. When the body is infected with a virus such as HIV, the body's immune system initiates a response to fight the infection. Antibodies are part of the fight and are released into the bloodstream after infection. These antibodies usually appear (are detectable) three weeks to three months after infection with HIV, but may take up to six months in some persons. In other words, when getting tested for HIV, think about the last possible exposure you experienced. If this occurrence was within the last three months the test may not be accurate (your body may not have produced antibodies as of yet).

Anonymous testing means that you do not need to give your name, address, or other personally identifying information. You are assigned a code of letters and/or numbers and your test results are identified by this code only. No one but you can match your name with your test results.

Confidential testing, on the other hand, requires information that identifies you, such as your name and medical record number. If you are tested through your doctor, the results will likely be included in your medical record. It is important to know that information recorded in your medical record may, with your permission, be reported to an insurance company. A court of law could also obtain your records in a legal case by issuing a subpoena. If these are potential concerns, you may want to choose anonymous testing.

HIV Testing Sites

The Boulder County Health Department offers low-cost, anonymous HIV tests to anyone who lives in Boulder County. Both OraSure and OraQuick Advance are offered. Call 303-413-7500 to schedule a test.

Wardenberg Student Health Center at the University of Colorado offers free, confidential HIV tests to CU students during the school year. Call 303.492.2030 for more information.

Planned Parenthood offers confidential HIV testing. Call 303.447.1040 for more information.

Clinica Campesina offers confidential HIV testing on a sliding scale. Call 303.665.9310 for more information.

The Salud Clinic offers confidential HIV testing. Call 303.776.3250 for more information.

In Denver, low-cost, confidential testing is available at Denver Metro Health Clinic, 605 Bannock. Call 303.436.7221 for more information.