Reasons to Get Tested for HIV

Reasons to Get Tested for HIV

If you have had unprotected sex (sex without a condom) or have shared needles with someone else, you might want to consider getting tested for HIV.

Early detection is key in fighting HIV and AIDS because:

• There is no cure for HIV, so early detection allows a person to get medical treatment that can slow the advancement and effects of the disease.
• Someone who learns he or she is infected can take the proper steps and precautions to prevent spreading the disease.
• Couples who want to get pregnant can take action to try to prevent their baby from being born with HIV.

Another reason to get tested is peace of mind: A negative test result can be a big relief for someone who is worried that he or she might be infected.