Self-Testing for HIV

How to self-test at home:

STEP 1

Remove the buffer pot from the end of your Self-Test and place it in the hole in the tray.

STEP 2

Remove the lid from the end of the safety lancet (the lancet is a tiny needle to do the finger prick). Place the red pad against your finger and push down until you hear a click. The lancet will make a tiny cut in your skin to produce a small drop of blood. This will sting for a second, but doesn’t really hurt.

STEP 3

Touch the tip of the testing tube to the drop of blood. The test will take up as much blood as it needs from that small drop. It really is a tiny amount.

STEP 4

Now pierce the foil top of the buffer pot with the tip of the test device and PUSH DOWN HARD. You have to push all the way down until the test will go no further so that it can absorb the liquid in the pot.

STEP 5

Start timing 15 minutes. Keep the test standing upright. After 3 minutes check to see that your test is absorbing the liquid – you will see it move up the testing strip. If it’s not, make sure the device is pushed right to the bottom of the buffer pot. After 15 minutes your test will be completed and you will be able to see your result.

Testing Tips

For self HIV test: to help get a drop of blood for the finger prick: Holding a cup of your favourite hot drink to warm up your fingers and the blood vessels will help with completing the self-sampling blood test.

For vaginal swabs: place one leg up on the toilet to get a good angle. Try to relax, the more relaxed you are the easier these tests will be. You have taken the steps to be sexually responsible by choosing to complete these tests, so well done you!

Always follow the instructions for your test, as well as post-test instructions

Test regularly – between new partners, after unprotected sex, every 3 month if in a relationship for your own peace of mind and for your health.