Can you be hiv positive after six negative test and 17 years exposure?

The window period for HIV testing refers to the time between when someone is infected with HIV and when the test can detect the presence of antibodies or antigens specific to HIV. During the window period, a person may be infected with HIV but still test negative for the virus.

The standard HIV antibody test can detect antibodies to HIV within 18 to 45 days after infection in most cases. However, in rare cases, it can take up to 6 months for antibodies to become detectable. Therefore, a negative HIV antibody test result after 6 months (180 days) from a potential exposure is usually considered conclusive.

If you have had six negative HIV tests over the course of 17 years of exposure, it is highly unlikely that you are HIV positive. The probability of all six tests being false negatives is extremely low. However, it's important to note that if you have had any recent potential exposure, it's recommended to wait the appropriate window period before getting tested again to ensure accurate results.

It's always a good practice to use appropriate protective measures, such as condoms, during sexual activity and to get tested regularly if you are concerned about potential HIV exposure.