Pap Smear
Routine cervical screening — a short, simple check that helps prevent cervical cancer.
Preventive Screening
HIV Testing and Counselling
Confidential HIV testing with counselling before and after, in a private and non-judgemental space.
Preventive Screening
What this service is
HIV testing is the only way to know your status, and knowing your status is the first step to looking after your own health and the health of the people you care about. Testing is available to anyone who would like it, for any reason.
Every test is accompanied by counselling on both sides of it: before, so that you know exactly what is being tested for and what a result can and cannot tell you; and after, so that you understand your result and what happens next.
Testing is voluntary and confidential. You can decide not to be tested, and you can stop at any point. The result belongs to you.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
Why now?
A private conversation about why you would like to be tested. You are not required to give a reason.
Pre-test counselling
What the test does, what it does not cover, the window period, and what the different results mean.
The test
The test itself, with the method and the timing of your result explained before it begins.
Post-test counselling
Your result is discussed whether it is negative or positive, and you are given time to ask questions.
Next steps and support
If you are positive, we discuss treatment and ongoing care. If you are negative, we talk about prevention and any risk factors.
Clinical programme: PMTCT. PMTCT (Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV) is a key part of our care for pregnant clients. It is included in antenatal care and integrated into HIV testing and counselling when pregnancy or planning for pregnancy is a factor. See our practitioner’s training and registration.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- You have never been tested, or it has been a long time since you were.
- You would like to be tested before starting a new relationship.
- You are pregnant, or you are planning a pregnancy.
- You have had a possible exposure and want to know your status.
- You simply want to know, and you want to do it somewhere you feel comfortable.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
Is my result confidential?
Yes. Your results are kept as confidential health information. We will not discuss them with your family, your employer or your partner without your consent.
How long does it take to get a result?
It depends on the test used. Some rapid tests give a result in about 30 minutes, while laboratory tests take longer. We will tell you which applies and how you will receive your result.
Can I be tested without my parents or partner knowing?
Yes. Testing is your decision and it is provided confidentially.
What if the result is positive?
You will not be left on your own. We explain what the result means, talk you through treatment options, and refer you for ongoing care and support.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside HIV testing and counselling.
Family Planning
Non-judgemental conversations about contraception, reproductive health and the choices that suit your life.
Minor Ailments
Everyday illnesses and injuries, assessed properly, treated sensibly and sent home with clear advice.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.