HIV testing

Testing is the starting point of the entire HIV response. It is the only way to know your status for certain, and an early diagnosis makes treatment far more effective. Testing in Moldova is free and confidential, and at many centres it can also be anonymous.

Why get tested

• Many people with HIV feel perfectly healthy for years without knowing they have the virus;
• The earlier you find out, the sooner you start treatment and the better your outcomes;
• If you are negative, you learn how to stay that way (prevention, PrEP);
• Testing protects your partners and breaks the chain of transmission.

Who should test, and how often

Testing is recommended for anyone who has had a possible risk:

• unprotected sex with a partner whose status you don't know;
• sharing needles or syringes;
• a new sexual partner;
• a diagnosis of another sexually transmitted infection.

People at higher risk should test regularly (for example every 3–6 months). All pregnant women are advised to test, to protect the baby.

The window period

The "window period" is the time between becoming infected and the point at which a test can detect HIV. During this interval a person may already be infected but test negative.

• Depending on the type, tests generally detect infection after 2–6 weeks, and modern tests earlier;
• If you test very soon after a possible exposure, repeat the test after the period your provider recommends.

Types of test

• Rapid test — from a drop of blood from the finger, or from saliva; result in 15–20 minutes;
• Laboratory test — a blood analysis that confirms the result with high accuracy;
• Self-testing — kits you can use yourself, at home, in complete privacy.

A positive rapid-test result is always confirmed by a further test before it is given as a final diagnosis.

Confidentiality and anonymity

• Testing is confidential: your result is not shared with anyone without your consent;
• At specialised centres, testing can also be anonymous — you don't have to give your name;
• Medical staff are bound by medical confidentiality.

Your visit to this site is anonymous too — we use no third-party tracking.

What happens after the test

If the result is negative: you learn how to stay negative — prevention, condoms and, if you are at higher risk, PrEP. Repeat the test after the window period if there was a recent exposure.

If the result is positive: you are not alone. You will receive counselling and be referred to treatment. Thanks to modern antiretroviral therapy, you can live a long, healthy life. Read the Living with HIV page.

Where to test

The list of testing centres, NGOs and helplines is on the Services page. For a possible recent exposure, ask about PEP — effective only within the first 72 hours.