WHY I TESTED HIV NEGATIVE YET I WAS POSITIVE my wife was positive but she tested negative for HIV

Summary

In this video on the Ask Dr. Uthuman YouTube channel, Dr. Uthuman and HIV specialist Dr. Kamoga Samuel from TASSO, Uganda, discuss important aspects of HIV testing. They explore why someone may test negative for HIV despite being positive, explaining the concept of the window period, during which the virus is undetectable. They also address the risks of transmission during this period and the importance of regular testing. The conversation highlights the importance of consistent medication and proper testing methods, urging viewers to be vigilant and seek counseling before making major life decisions like marriage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Testing negative for HIV while actually being positive is possible due to the window period, a phase where the virus is inactive and undetectable.
• 😀 The window period can last between 3 to 9 months after HIV infection, during which the body doesn't show antibodies or viral activity.
• 😀 HIV tests typically detect antibodies, so during the window period, someone can test negative even though they are infected.
• 😀 It is important to get tested multiple times over several months to confirm HIV status, as results may change over time.
• 😀 A person in the window period can still transmit HIV to others, as the virus is actively multiplying in their body.
• 😀 False negative results can occur if a person is already on HIV treatment, which suppresses the virus, making it undetectable in some tests.
• 😀 If a person who is HIV positive stops taking their medication, the virus can reactivate and be detected in future tests.
• 😀 The DNA HIV RNA PCR test is the most accurate method for detecting HIV, especially during the window period or for confirming suppression of the virus.
• 😀 It's recommended for couples to test multiple times over a span of a few months to ensure accurate results before making major decisions like marriage.
• 😀 It's essential to have counseling when one partner is HIV positive and the other is negative, to ensure a healthy relationship and reduce the risk of transmission.

Q & A

Why might someone test negative for HIV when they are actually positive?

A person can test negative for HIV if they are in the 'window period' of the infection. During this time, the virus is inactive and the body has not yet started producing antibodies to detect the infection, resulting in a false negative test.

What is the 'window period' for HIV?

The window period refers to the time between when a person is infected with HIV and when the virus becomes detectable by standard HIV tests. This period can range from three to nine months.

Can someone in their window period spread HIV to others?

Yes, during the window period, the HIV virus is highly active and replicating in the body, making it possible for the individual to transmit the virus to others, especially during unprotected intercourse.

How does the HIV virus behave during the window period?

During the window period, the HIV virus remains dormant in the body, inserting its genetic material into the host's cells without causing immediate symptoms or triggering the immune system to produce antibodies.

What tests are commonly used to detect HIV, and why can they sometimes produce false negatives?

Common HIV tests, such as those detecting antibodies, can produce false negatives if the person is in their window period because the body has not yet started producing detectable levels of antibodies. Additionally, individuals on consistent ARV treatment may have suppressed viral loads, which can also lead to false negatives.

What is the most accurate test to detect HIV, especially during the window period?

The most accurate test to detect HIV is the HIV DNA PCR or HIV RNA PCR test, which detects the actual viral material in the body rather than antibodies. This test is reliable even during the window period or in cases of suppressed viral loads due to ARV treatment.

How can ARV treatment affect HIV test results?

ARV treatment can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, making it seem like the person is no longer infected with HIV. However, the virus may still be present in the body, and if treatment is stopped, the viral load can increase again, leading to a positive HIV test result.

What should individuals do if they test negative for HIV and are considering marriage or a long-term relationship?

It is recommended to retest after three months to confirm the initial negative result. Testing multiple times within this period helps ensure that any possible HIV infection is detected, especially if one partner is in the window period.

Why is it important to test for HIV multiple times before committing to a relationship?

Since HIV can be in its window period and not detectable during early stages, testing multiple times ensures that both partners are free of the virus. This provides clarity and reduces the risk of transmitting the virus.

How should someone with an HIV-positive partner approach the relationship to prevent transmission?

It's crucial to consult with a counselor to learn how to manage living with an HIV-positive partner. With proper treatment and precautions, such as consistent use of ARVs and safe sexual practices, HIV transmission can be minimized or avoided altogether.