[Question #9046] Doing the self-test just some days prior to the end of window period
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36 months ago
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Hi, I had a suspicious intercourse on the 5th of May 2022.
Today I have bought an HIV self-test (Biosynex Exacto). The pharmarcist told me that the window period is 3 months. So it means that I can do the test on the 5th of august (in 3 days), when exactly 3 months will be past since the intercourse day.
Today I have bought an HIV self-test (Biosynex Exacto). The pharmarcist told me that the window period is 3 months. So it means that I can do the test on the 5th of august (in 3 days), when exactly 3 months will be past since the intercourse day.
Since on the 5th August I will be on holidays, and I also am anxious, I
would like to do the self test today (2nd of August). Is it okay to test myself now? Will it be reliable/accurate? I am basically 3 days too early from the end of window. The pharmacist where
I bought the self-test couldn't give me an answer.
Thank you in advance!
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
36 months ago
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Welcome to the forum. Thank you for your confidence in our services.
It would be helpful to know more about the nature of your exposure, your partner, etc. But in any case, you have chosen a highly accurate third generation antibody test. I have no personal experience with Biosynax Exacto, but all third generation tests are highly accurate -- and I have reviewed a very well conducted research study with it showed 100% of known infected people tested positive, and 100% of uninfected persons test negative.
You need not wait til the 3 month mark: the third generation tests are conclusive after 8 weeks (regardless of the official 12 week recommendation of the manufacturer), so you can test yourself now. On the other hand, why not wait another three days? Having waited this long, that shouldn't be a big deal. If you're confident you won't keep worrying about those extra three days, go ahead and test now.
I hope these comments are helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear.
HHH, MD
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