STI Test Timing Checker
Testing too early gives a false "all clear" because every infection has a window period. Enter when the exposure happened and see what you can test for now, what to wait for, and the two things that are time-critical today. Runs entirely on your device.
These are general window periods, kept in line with what we publish in our STD testing guide. Your doctor or lab may advise slightly different timing for a specific test — follow their advice. NACO ICTC centres offer free, confidential HIV and syphilis testing across India.
The two things that can't wait
If the exposure was within the last 72 hours and there was real HIV risk, HIV PEP (a preventive medicine course) can still work — but the window closes fast. And if pregnancy is possible, emergency contraception also works within 72 hours. Both are covered here: HIV PEP in India and condom broke: the next 72 hours.
How testing windows work
A "window period" is the gap between exposure and when a test can reliably detect an infection. Test inside the window and a negative result means little. That's why the timeline above matters — and why a final all-clear usually needs a repeat test at around 3 months.
General educational information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you have symptoms, a known exposure to a specific infection, or any doubt, see a doctor or visit an ICTC/STI clinic — don't wait for a window to pass.