HIV Early Detection Test South Kensington
Our HIV early detection test uses PCR/RNA technology to detect HIV infection from as early as 10 days after potential exposure - perfect when you need answers quickly and can't wait for standard testing windows.
Book your test at our South Kensington clinic.
Price
£211
+ £50 blood draw
- Results within 1 day"
- Confidential service
- No GP referral needed
- Professional clinical environment
- Results via secure portal
- Nurse-led expert care
South Kensington Clinic
Earliest Possible Detection
When you can't wait, our early detection HIV test provides accurate results much sooner than standard antibody testing.
- Detects HIV from just 10 days post-exposure
- PCR/RNA technology for highest sensitivity
- Ideal for recent exposure concerns
- Same accuracy as later antibody tests
- Fast results for peace of mind
100% Confidential
Your privacy is protected
Fast Results
Results within 1 day"
Expert Care
Professional clinical team
Accurate Testing
Lab-certified results
About the HIV Rapid RNA HIV-1 QUALITATIVE
The HIV Rapid RNA HIV-1 QUALITATIVE is a confidential sexual health test offered at South Kensington Medical and Dental, located at 20 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3DL — a two-minute walk from South Kensington tube station. A blood sample is collected by a registered nurse during an appointment lasting approximately 20 minutes. Results are typically available within 1 day" and are sent securely via 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.
South Kensington Medical and Dental is a two-minute walk from South Kensington Underground station on the Piccadilly, District, and Circle lines. The clinic is open Monday to Thursday from 9am, with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8pm, Fridays from 8am to 5pm, and weekends from 10am to 4pm. All samples are analysed by an accredited laboratory, and your visit is entirely confidential.
Who May Consider This Test
The HIV Rapid RNA HIV-1 QUALITATIVE may be relevant for a range of individuals. The following are common reasons people choose to have 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.
Bring your confirmation details
Arrive at our South Kensington clinic, 20 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3DL with your booking confirmation. We are a two-minute walk from South Kensington tube. The 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
If any results indicate a positive finding, we recommend discussing them with your GP or a qualified sexual health clinician for appropriate next steps.
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 1 day"
Frequently Asked Questions
Our early detection HIV test can accurately detect HIV infection from just 10 days after potential exposure, compared to 4 weeks for standard antibody tests.
You May Also Be Interested In
Other sexual health tests you may want to consider alongside the HIV Rapid RNA HIV-1 QUALITATIVE
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.
