INSTI HIV Self Test — Support Hub & FAQ

Before you test

How accurate is the INSTI HIV Self Test?

The INSTI HIV Self Test is highly accurate when used correctly and outside the HIV window period. In an untrained user performance evaluation by bioLytical Laboratories, the test showed 100% sensitivity (95% confidence interval: 99.3%–100%) and 99.8% specificity (95% CI: 99.2%–99.9%). A separate study calculated specificity at 99.5%. A reactive result must always be confirmed through laboratory testing.

What is the HIV window period?

The HIV window period is the time between possible HIV exposure and when a test can reliably detect HIV. The INSTI HIV Self Test is an antibody-based self-test. HIV antibodies may begin to develop around 21 days after exposure for most people. For some people, antibodies may take up to 12 weeks to reach detectable levels. A non-reactive result at 12 weeks (84 days) after your last possible exposure is considered conclusive for antibody self-tests. Testing too early can produce a false negative result.

Can I have HIV without symptoms?

Yes. Many people with HIV experience no symptoms at all, especially in the early years. Symptoms cannot reliably tell you if you have HIV. Testing is the only way to know. Learn more about HIV symptoms →

Taking the test

What if I used the bottles in the wrong order?

The result may not be reliable, and the test should be repeated with a new kit. The correct order is: Bottle 1 (Sample Diluent), Bottle 2 (Colour Developer), Bottle 3 (Clarifying Solution).

What if I spilled one of the solutions?

The result may not be reliable. If a solution bottle spilled or wasn't fully used, repeat the test with a new kit.

What if I touched the membrane?

Touching the membrane may interfere with the result. If you accidentally touched the membrane, repeating the test with a new kit is recommended.

What if I cannot collect enough blood?

The test may not work correctly if too little blood is collected. Try washing your hands with warm water first, lowering your hand below heart level, gently massaging the finger from base to tip, or using a fresh dry finger (not the one already pricked). If the result is invalid, repeat the test with a new kit.

What if my control dot is faint?

A faint control dot usually still means the test worked correctly. If the control dot is clearly visible (even if light) and there is no test dot below it, the result is non-reactive. If unsure, repeat with a new kit or seek confirmatory laboratory testing.

Common testing problems & troubleshooting

When should I retest?

Retesting is recommended if any of the following apply:

• You tested within 12 weeks of your last possible exposure
• The result was invalid
• You are unsure whether the test was performed correctly
• You continue to have ongoing HIV exposure
• You have any symptoms that could be related to HIV after a recent possible exposure

Routine testing recommendations

• At least once a year for sexually active adults
• Every 3 to 6 months if at higher exposure risk: men who have sex with men with multiple or new partners, people whose partners have HIV with detectable viral load, people with multiple sexual partners, people who share injection equipment, or people with another recent sexually transmitted infection
• After any possible HIV exposure, with retest at 12 weeks if testing within the window period
• Before starting a new sexual relationship, if either partner is unsure about their status

When is a laboratory HIV test more appropriate?

A laboratory HIV test (through a clinic or healthcare provider) may be more appropriate than a self-test in these situations:

• Your possible exposure was very recent — within the last 12 weeks, and especially within the first 4 weeks
• You currently have symptoms that concern you (fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue) and have had a possible exposure recently
• You need earlier HIV detection — laboratory tests can detect HIV earlier than antibody self-tests, often within a few weeks of exposure
• A healthcare provider has advised you to test
• You would prefer in-person support and counselling
• You are testing as part of regular sexual health care or following exposure to a known HIV-positive partner

We're upfront about this: laboratory tests can detect HIV earlier than self-tests and provide additional support. The INSTI HIV Self Test is a private, accessible option, but it's not always the right one for every situation.

After the test

What should I do after a reactive result?

A reactive self-test must always be confirmed through laboratory testing. Don't panic, and don't use another self-test to confirm. Within the next few days: contact a sexual health clinic, your GP, or an HIV testing service; tell them you have had a reactive self-test result and need confirmatory testing; they will arrange a laboratory blood test, usually within a few days. While you wait: modern HIV treatment is highly effective and people diagnosed early can live a normal lifespan. Avoid sex without a condom until you know your confirmed status, to protect any partners while uncertainty exists.

Should my partner test too?

If you tested non-reactive: testing together with your partner can help you both understand your status and make informed sexual health decisions. If you tested reactive: yes, your current and recent sexual partners (typically the past 12 months, but your healthcare provider can advise) should consider testing as soon as possible. Many countries have confidential partner notification services that can help.

How often should I test for HIV?

Testing frequency depends on your personal situation: at least once a year for sexually active adults, every 3 to 6 months for higher-risk groups (see Window Period section above), after any possible HIV exposure, and before starting a new sexual relationship if either partner is unsure about their status.