HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR
Professional, confidential testing for HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR. Book your appointment at our City of London clinic for fast, accurate results.
Book your test at our City of London clinic.
Price
£211
+ £50 blood draw
- Results within 3 days"
- Confidential service
- No GP referral needed
- Professional clinical environment
- Results via secure portal
- Nurse-led expert care
City of London Clinic
Know Your HIV Status
HIV testing is crucial for your health and the health of your partners. Early detection allows you to take control of your health.
- Early detection is key to managing your health
- Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U)
- Protect yourself and your partners
- Peace of mind after potential exposure
- Recommended annually for sexually active adults
100% Confidential
Your privacy is protected
Fast Results
Results within 3 days"
Expert Care
Professional clinical team
Accurate Testing
Lab-certified results
About the HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR
The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR is a confidential sexual health test available at St Paul's Medical and Dental, our private practice at 5 Ave Maria Lane in the City of London, EC4M 7AQ. A blood sample is collected by a registered nurse in an appointment of approximately 20 minutes. Results are typically available within 3 days" and are delivered confidentially via secure email.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that targets the immune system, specifically CD4 cells. Modern testing methods include 4th generation tests that detect both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, allowing for earlier detection — typically from 4 weeks after potential exposure. The window period varies depending on the test type: antibody-only tests may require up to 12 weeks for a conclusive result, while combined antigen/antibody tests can provide results from 4 weeks. According to UKHSA data, approximately 4,500 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in England in recent years. Early identification of HIV allows individuals to access antiretroviral treatment, which can reduce viral load to undetectable levels.
St Paul's Medical and Dental is within walking distance of St Paul's tube station, Blackfriars, and City Thameslink. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, making it convenient for City workers and local residents. All samples are processed by an accredited laboratory. Your appointment is entirely confidential, and results are delivered securely via email.
Who May Consider This Test
The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR at our City of London clinic may be suitable for a variety of individuals. Below are some of the common reasons patients book this test:
- Individuals who have had unprotected sexual contact
- Those with a new sexual partner or multiple partners
- People from countries with high HIV prevalence
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals who have shared injecting equipment
- Those who wish to confirm their HIV status as part of routine health screening
How to Prepare
Stay well hydrated
Drinking water before your appointment helps make veins easier to locate, making the blood draw quicker and more comfortable.
Consider the testing window period
Each test has a recommended minimum time from potential exposure for accurate results. If you are unsure whether enough time has passed, our clinical team can advise you at your appointment.
Continue any current medications
Unless advised otherwise by your prescribing doctor, continue taking your regular medications as normal before the test.
Attend your appointment
Arrive at St Paul's Medical and Dental, 5 Ave Maria Lane, EC4M 7AQ with your booking confirmation. The nearest stations are St Paul's, Blackfriars, and City Thameslink. Your appointment takes approximately 20 minutes.
Pricing
The phlebotomy fee is charged once per visit, regardless of the number of tests booked. Payment is collected at the clinic.
Sample Information
Your Results
Your results will indicate whether the tested infection was detected. If a positive result is returned, we recommend booking a follow-up consultation or discussing the findings with your GP or sexual health clinician.
How It Works
Book Online
Choose a convenient date and time
Visit Clinic
Quick and discreet appointment
Sample Collection
Professional, comfortable process
Get Results
Results within 3 days"
Frequently Asked Questions
The appointment takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes registration, sample collection, and any questions you may have.
You May Also Be Interested In
Other sexual health tests you may want to consider alongside the HIV-1 RNA Viral Load by PCR
What Our Patients Say
Real feedback from our patients at South Kensington Medical & Dental.
Meet Our Medical Team
Our experienced medical team is fully qualified and registered with the GMC and NMC, delivering safe, high-quality care in line with the highest professional standards.
Because our patients deserve nothing less.
Registered. Regulated. Trusted.
South Kensington Medical & Dental is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and our clinicians are registered with the relevant UK regulatory bodies, including the GDC and GMC. Our dentists, dental nurses and medical professionals deliver care that meets the highest clinical, safety and ethical standards, because our patients deserve nothing less.
