What is HIV exposure?

People can become exposed to HIV in several ways. This may be from unprotected sex, sharing needles or having a needlestick injury. A needlestick injury is when an unclean needle pricks you, such as accidentally stepping on one.

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, a medicine called Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) can reduce your risk of getting HIV. PEP prevents HIV from spreading through the body. PEP must be taken within 72 hours of the exposure to properly work.

PEP is a four-week course of medication. It’s available from sexual health clinics and emergency departments.

 

What will my GP do if they think I have been exposed to HIV?

If your GP thinks you may have been exposed to HIV, they will refer you for a specialist sexual health assessment so you can start your PEP course. If you can’t take PEP, your GP will talk to you about the next steps and other treatment options.

Your GP will also:

  • Arrange a blood test to confirm your diagnosis
  • Talk to you about safe sex and safe injecting to prevent future exposures
  • Help you understand what activities you should avoid right now, such as donating blood
  • Offer referrals for local counselling or psychologist services if you are feeling distress

 

What will my GP do in the future if I have been exposed to HIV?

Your GP may see you again in the next few days to follow up your test results, monitor your health and manage the next steps of your treatment.

Your GP may also schedule more appointments and tests during the next few months. This is because it can take one to three months for HIV to be detected in the body. Often, you need more than one test to confirm whether the PEP was successful and you don’t have HIV.

Your GP may offer further referrals to a specialist support service or sexual health clinic.

 

What can I do if I think I might have HIV?

If you think you might have HIV, take precautions to protect yourself and others. This includes:

  • Practising safe sex and safe needle use if you inject drugs
  • Don’t donate blood
  • Ask your GP which healthcare workers you need to tell

Continue to follow your GP’s instructions. Don’t skip any appointments, and take any medication as instructed.

Try not to panic in the coming weeks – there’s a good chance you won’t get HIV if you are able to start PEP within 72 hours of your exposure. If you’re feeling anxious, talk to your GP about a referral to speak to a counsellor or a psychologist.