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HIV Test

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HIV Test

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your HIV test kit
  • The finger-prick items provided
  • The buffer dropper provided
  • A timer or your phone

Before starting:

  • Check the expiry date.
  • Do not use the test if the package is damaged or already open.
  • Keep the kit between 4–30°C.
  • Do not freeze the kit.
  • Keep it away from direct light.
  • Wash and dry your hands.

Step 1 — Take your finger-prick sample

  • Wash your hands with warm water and soap, then dry them thoroughly.
  • Remove the protective cap from the single-use finger pricker.
  • Press the pricker firmly against the side of a clean fingertip to prick your finger.
  • Hold your hand pointing down and gently massage from your palm towards the fingertip until a rounded drop of blood forms. Do not squeeze the puncture site.
  • Use the blood collection tool in the kit to collect the blood drop.
  • Use the blood immediately, then safely dispose of the used pricker. Do not reuse it.
  • Take care when handling blood and avoid getting blood on your skin, eyes or other surfaces.

Step 2 — Take the test

  • Open the test pouch.
  • Remove the test device.
  • Place it flat on a clean surface.
  • Add 2 drops of your finger-prick blood to the sample area.
  • Immediately add 2 drops of the buffer solution from the dropper.
  • Start your timer.

Step 3 — Read your result

  • Read the result between 10 and 20 minutes.
  • Do not read the result after 20 minutes.

Result timing

Read the result between 10 and 20 minutes.
Do not read the result after 20 minutes.

How to read your result

Use the words and line positions together. Never rely on colour alone.

Reactive / Preliminary Positive

What it means
The test has detected HIV antibodies.
What to do next
This is a preliminary result and needs to be followed up with further testing. We recommend speaking to a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Negative

What it means
HIV antibodies were not detected by this test.
What to do next
A negative result does not always rule out HIV, particularly if testing was done soon after a possible exposure. If you are concerned about a recent exposure or your result, speak to a healthcare professional.

Invalid

What it means
The test has not worked correctly.
What to do next
Repeat the test using a new kit. If the new test is also invalid, contact us or the supplier and provide the lot number printed on the kit.

Important information

  • Take care when handling blood and avoid getting blood on your skin, eyes or other surfaces.
  • A negative result does not always rule out HIV, particularly if testing was done soon after a possible exposure.

My Result Summary

Create a simple PDF record of the result you read, to keep or show a healthcare professional.

Created on your phone only. We don't ask for your name, we don't save your result and it is never sent to us or to any analytics.

Your result (as shown in the instructions)

This is a customer-generated record of a self-reported screening result. It is not a clinically verified medical certificate or a formal diagnosis. CareFree Kits has not seen or verified this result.

What to do next

A reactive result needs confirmatory testing through a healthcare professional. If your result is negative but you have symptoms, a recent exposure or concerns, seek clinical advice. Without the control line the test is invalid: repeat with a new kit. Seek advice if a result remains unclear.

Antibodies may not be detectable soon after exposure. A negative result does not rule out HIV, and this test does not screen for other STIs. Ask a sexual health service which test and timing are appropriate for your circumstances.

Call NHS 111Email CareFree Kits

In an emergency, call 999.

Find Healthcare Support Near You

Results open on the NHS website, an external resource with clinic contact details and service information.

NHS services, eligibility and appointment availability vary by area. Contact the clinic directly to ask about appointments.

Find a sexual health clinic near you (opens the NHS website) NHS 111 Emergency 999

CareFree Kits is a private service and is not affiliated with or operated by the NHS.

Important information

Important information for all tests.

  • Check the expiry date. Never use a test that is expired, damaged or already open.
  • Only use the swab and items supplied with your kit.
  • Use a timer and read your result at the exact time stated. Never read it late.
  • No C line means the test is invalid. Repeat it with a new kit.
  • A negative result does not always rule out infection. Testing too soon, or collecting too little sample, can affect it.
  • A positive or reactive result should always be followed up with a healthcare professional.
  • Still have symptoms or worried about a recent exposure? Speak to a healthcare professional, even if your result is negative.
  • Not sure what your result shows? Do not guess. Repeat the test with a new kit or speak to a healthcare professional.
  • Keep test kits away from children and pets, and dispose of used items safely.
  • CareFree Kits provides testing products and general information. Our tests do not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis.