Testing to see if you are infected with HIV is done in 2 steps. The first test is a screening test. If it is negative, you don't have HIV and do not need more tests. If the screening test is positive, you will need a second, different test to confirm the positive screening test.

Usually the first test, the ELISA test, is a blood test. Some hospitals and facilities may instead do a test of fluid obtained from your mouth by swabbing your gums. If the first test result is positive, another more specific blood test, usually the Western blot test, is done to confirm the results.

Once you have confirmed positive HIV test results, you must have a thorough medical exam. Your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and symptoms and will examine you.

The medical history and physical exam includes discussing your history of sexual practices and sexually transmitted diseases. Your healthcare provider will also ask about any history of drug abuse.

You will have some lab tests. Comparing the results of the physical exam and these first lab tests with results weeks or months from now can help your healthcare provider diagnose new symptoms you may have in the future. It can also help your provider know how well your medicines are working.

You will be tested for certain infections, such as tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, and hepatitis B. These infections can worsen rapidly when you have HIV. They also pose a serious risk to others.

HIV-positive women should have a Pap test according to the schedule recommended by their healthcare provider (usually every 6 to 12 months).