4th gen or 5th gen HIV test?

[puntingking]

I am about to have my regular sti test in a few days. I have just ordered it and I am waiting for the testing kit to arrive by post.

Last time they tested me using the HIV 4th gen test, this time they will be testing me for HIV using the 5th gen test. What is the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test? 

They offcourse will be testing me also for the most common stis such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea but my question is relating to the HIV testing and the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test. 

I suppose it does not matter anyhow, a test is a test but I am just curious at what the difference between the 4th gen and the 5th gen testing. 

Thanks guys 

[alabama1]

I am about to have my regular sti test in a few days. I have just ordered it and I am waiting for the testing kit to arrive by post.

Last time they tested me using the HIV 4th gen test, this time they will be testing me for HIV using the 5th gen test. What is the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test? 

They offcourse will be testing me also for the most common stis such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea but my question is relating to the HIV testing and the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test. 

I suppose it does not matter anyhow, a test is a test but I am just curious at what the difference between the 4th gen and the 5th gen testing. 

Thanks guys 

I found the answer to your question in less than 10 seconds with a Google search. How come you didn't think to do the same 

[scutty brown]

5th generation uses stealthy technology

[puntingking]

I found the answer to your question in less than 10 seconds with a Google search. How come you didn't think to do the same 

No matter how useful you think Google is, sometimes Google is not always right.
More to the point, people in my experience provide better understanding in explaining something that I may not know.
We all don't know everything right. 

[puntingking]

5th generation uses stealthy technology

so the 5th generation test is more high tech in simple words, gotcha 

[Jonestown]

Why not ask the people who are going to test you, if anyone knows the correct answer it will be them.

[puntingking]

Why not ask the people who are going to test you, if anyone knows the correct answer it will be them.

it is a weekend now so they are closed now, But that is not a bad idea. I will asked them this week. 

[RandomGuy99]

## Differences Between 4th and 5th Generation HIV Tests

**4th Generation HIV tests** detect both **HIV antibodies** and **HIV antigens**. The presence of antigens can appear in the blood shortly after infection, allowing for earlier detection compared to earlier generations of tests. 4th generation tests are typically used in labs and can produce results in a few hours to days.

**5th Generation HIV tests**, on the other hand, are designed to improve sensitivity further and may also focus on specific viral load detection. These tests are often used for more precise testing in specific situations, potentially evaluating the HIV viral RNA directly. 5th generation tests may also incorporate additional features for distinguishing between different HIV types or variants.

### Key Features

- **Detection**:

  - **4th Generation**: Antibodies and antigen (p24).
  - **5th Generation**: More sensitive detection of antibodies and viral RNA.

- **Timing**:

  - **4th Generation**: Detects HIV sooner than 3rd generation tests, often within 2-4 weeks after exposure.
  - **5th Generation**: Detects even earlier stages and specific types of HIV, depending on the method.

- **Usage**:

  - **4th Generation**: Common in clinical settings for general screening.
  - **5th Generation**: More specialized, used in certain diagnostic scenarios.

Overall, the key difference lies in the detection capabilities and specificity of the tests, with 5th generation tests offering enhanced sensitivity and potential for earlier detection.

[puntingking]

Thanks RandomGuy99   

[jeanphillipe]

Useful to read.  Cheers.

[Strawberry]

Thanks RandomGuy99   

Are you aware RandomGuy99 often cuts and pastes from Google/AI search results?

[puntingking]

Are you aware RandomGuy99 often cuts and pastes from Google/AI search results?

I am aware 

[Strawberry]

I am aware 

So interesting after your post saying Google is not always right  However recognition you are getting yourself tested is due, and praised because many punters do not.

[puntingking]

So interesting after your post saying Google is not always right  However recognition you are getting yourself tested is due, and praised because many punters do not.

I stand by what I have said regarding Google. I was just saying "thanks" to Random Guy just for his input. Google is not my method of choice when generally finding out something, espechally when it comes down to a health topic. 

As regards to your second point, I get tested very regularly like every 3-4 months or so. Maybe some may even say "too often" 

I think having a sexual health screening every few months is a minor annoyance and it have never been easier to look after ones sexual health now. 

[puntingking]

praised because many punters do not.

These punters are silly. Health is the most important thing in ones life. 

[RandomGuy99]

NICE info on 4th and 5th generation HIV tests

External Link/Members Only

[Strawberry]

These punters are silly. Health is the most important thing in ones life. 

From conversations with punters I think some think it doesn't apply to them, some assume my testing will cover them (I call this testing by proxy), there is still great stigma as well as misbelief about STI testing, some do not even know where to start, others just do not consider it. I do however accept there are some punters, in some situations where testing would be for a variety of reasons incredibly difficult eg rural areas, can't receive test kits in the post.

Some of the above is covered in the interview in this thread;

https://www.ukpunting.com/index.php?topic=449915.0

On several occasions where there has been almost accidental post-coital contact, punters/clients have said "It's ok I have had a vasectomy" or "It's ok I'm likely less fertile due to my age". STis do not seem to have occured to them.

On the other hand some punters are terrified one sexual encounter with an Escort involving OWO, covered intercourse, kissing, 69, RO with no accidental contact means they now have an STI and or now must run to the GUM.

Education and reduction of stigma I believe go a long way!

[Strawberry]

I could add to the above post, some punters say their blood is tested when giving blood. I have looked this up, it does seem blood is testing for Hep A, B, C, HIV and syphilis and the donor contacted if the test is positive. This does not however cover gonorrhea, clamydia and a few other things GUM/STI tests cover, plus of course lack of opportunity to ask for advice eg risks etc.

[puntingking]

I could add to the above post, some punters say their blood is tested when giving blood. I have looked this up, it does seem blood is testing for Hep A, B, C, HIV and syphilis and the donor contacted if the test is positive. This does not however cover gonorrhea, clamydia and a few other things GUM/STI tests cover, plus of course lack of opportunity to ask for advice eg risks etc.

 

[puntingking]

From conversations with punters I think some think it doesn't apply to them, some assume my testing will cover them (I call this testing by proxy), there is still great stigma as well as misbelief about STI testing, some do not even know where to start, others just do not consider it. I do however accept there are some punters, in some situations where testing would be for a variety of reasons incredibly difficult eg rural areas, can't receive test kits in the post.

Some of the above is covered in the interview in this thread;

https://www.ukpunting.com/index.php?topic=449915.0

On several occasions where there has been almost accidental post-coital contact, punters/clients have said "It's ok I have had a vasectomy" or "It's ok I'm likely less fertile due to my age". STis do not seem to have occured to them.

On the other hand some punters are terrified one sexual encounter with an Escort involving OWO, covered intercourse, kissing, 69, RO with no accidental contact means they now have an STI and or now must run to the GUM.

Education and reduction of stigma I believe go a long way!

I agree with what you have said 

[RandomGuy99]

Has anyone got any tips on how to stop the tip of your finger getting massively bruised when you do the finger prick blood collection for the home testing kits?

[Strawberry]

Has anyone got any tips on how to stop the tip of your finger getting massively bruised when you do the finger prick blood collection for the home testing kits?

After my last experience with a home test kit resulting in erroneous result, I will now always go to the GUM for testing but I understand this may not be possible or preferable.

[puntingking]

After my last experience with a home test kit resulting in erroneous result, I will now always go to the GUM for testing but I understand this may not be possible or preferable.

I know that a home testing kit can result in a false negative. This is mainly due to patients not doing the test properly. But if a patient re do the test again, the chances of both tests being wrong is unlikely.   

Attending a GUM clinic for testing is not practical for a lot of people.
I still trust a home testing kit to deliver me the correct result, if I am ever in doubt I would re take it just to be on the safe side. 

[Strawberry]

I know that a home testing kit can result in a false negative. This is mainly due to patients not doing the test properly. But if a patient re do the test again, the chances of both tests being wrong is unlikely.   

Attending a GUM clinic for testing is not practical for a lot of people.
I still trust a home testing kit to deliver me the correct result, if I am ever in doubt I would re take it just to be on the safe side. 

Mine was a false 'reactive test for syphilis', that's when I learned the test for syphilis is not straightforward. It still caused me much consternation, GUM staff said this isn't unusual and they have to deal with quite a few panic calls as a result of hoke testing kits.

Mine was bought from Fettle the sister company of SH24, who contract to provide free home testing kits for many parts of the country but not my area.

[RandomGuy99]

Mine was a false 'reactive test for syphilis', that's when I learned the test for syphilis is not straightforward. It still caused me much consternation, GUM staff said this isn't unusual and they have to deal with quite a few panic calls as a result of hoke testing kits.

Mine was bought from Fettle the sister company of SH24, who contract to provide free home testing kits for many parts of the country but not my area.

I used a Fettle kit. It's identical to the SH24 kit and now I know why that is. SH24 redirects you to Fettle and Fettle charge £80 for a kit.

[Strawberry]

I used a Fettle kit. It's identical to the SH24 kit and now I know why that is. SH24 redirects you to Fettle and Fettle charge £80 for a kit.

I paid well over £100  to include oral swabs and possibly anal swabs too. I want the full range. I bought it because local GUM were being difficult regards access/giving me an appointment, they've since told me I should always be offered an appointment.

I often struggle with the blood from fingers when using 'phial fill' kits, this was one of the few times I was successful. I had 4 bruised fingers and an unnecessary scare.

[RandomGuy99]

I paid well over £100  to include oral swabs and possibly anal swabs too. I want the full range. I bought it because local GUM were being difficult regards access/giving me an appointment, they've since told me I should always be offered an appointment.

I often struggle with the blood from fingers when using 'phial fill' kits, this was one of the few times I was successful. I had 4 bruised fingers and an unnecessary scare.

I've learned that the way to get the blood out of your finger is exactly as they say in their guidance videos. Run your hand under a warm tap and stroke your palm with a finger to direct more blood down the finger you're going to prick. I used to struggle to get the blood out but using this approach I get lots of big drops of blood coming out and end up with loads of blood. I pricked the finger and gave the lancet a bit of a push to make sure it properly pierced the skin. I think the guidance suggests it needs 15 drops but I found it was less. My table did look like someone had been murdered though and getting the blood to stop took a while and I needed bigger plasters

External Link/Members Only

External Link/Members Only

[Strawberry]

I've learned that the way to get the blood out of your finger is exactly as they say in their guidance videos. Run your hand under a warm tap and stroke your palm with a finger to direct more blood down the finger you're going to prick. I used to struggle to get the blood out but using this approach I get lots of big drops of blood coming out and end up with loads of blood. I pricked the finger and gave the lancet a bit of a push to make sure it properly pierced the skin. I think the guidance suggests it needs 15 drops but I found it was less. My table did look like someone had been murdered though and getting the blood to stop took a while and I needed bigger plasters

External Link/Members Only

External Link/Members Only

Thank you, yes I am already aware of this and do everything recommended including hot showet. Still struggle with it, takes 3 or 4 fingers to obtain a full phial, and given the false positive, amount of hassle created I will favour going in person. GUM staff told me venous samples are the gold standard.

[puntingking]

I've learned that the way to get the blood out of your finger is exactly as they say in their guidance videos. Run your hand under a warm tap and stroke your palm with a finger to direct more blood down the finger you're going to prick. I used to struggle to get the blood out but using this approach I get lots of big drops of blood coming out and end up with loads of blood. I pricked the finger and gave the lancet a bit of a push to make sure it properly pierced the skin. I think the guidance suggests it needs 15 drops but I found it was less. My table did look like someone had been murdered though and getting the blood to stop took a while and I needed bigger plasters

External Link/Members Only

External Link/Members Only

I find that if I do the test after a hot shower/bath, it then goes smoothly without any problems 

[RandomGuy99]

I find that if I do the test after a hot shower/bath, it then goes smoothly without any problems 

Do you also end up with a finger that looks like it's been stood on by an elephant and takes about a week to get back to normal?

[whiskyfan]

I am about to have my regular sti test in a few days. I have just ordered it and I am waiting for the testing kit to arrive by post.

Last time they tested me using the HIV 4th gen test, this time they will be testing me for HIV using the 5th gen test. What is the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test? 

They offcourse will be testing me also for the most common stis such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea but my question is relating to the HIV testing and the difference between the 4th gen test and the 5th gen test. 

I suppose it does not matter anyhow, a test is a test but I am just curious at what the difference between the 4th gen and the 5th gen testing. 

Thanks guys 

You're way behind, the latest is ST-iPhone 17

[puntingking]

Do you also end up with a finger that looks like it's been stood on by an elephant and takes about a week to get back to normal?

no 

[puntingking]

My sti test came back all clear 

[RandomGuy99]

Fettle are quick with test results - back within 36 hrs.

[puntingking]

Fettle are quick with test results - back within 36 hrs.

Same as shl for me. My test result came back really quick. 

[jaj909]

My sti test came back all clear 

Congrats on the clear result 

Im not as active as you are in the hobby, but get tested regularly -  perhaps am overly trepidatious about it for health reasons (if i wasnt i'd see more girls). May I ask, in the years you've been into punting have you had many positives from tests and needed treatment? If i were as active as you id be expecting to need a shot of penicillin at least once a year!

[puntingking]

Congrats on the clear result 

Im not as active as you are in the hobby, but get tested regularly -  perhaps am overly trepidatious about it for health reasons (if i wasnt i'd see more girls). May I ask, in the years you've been into punting have you had many positives from tests and needed treatment? If i were as active as you id be expecting to need a shot of penicillin at least once a year!

I can honestly say I have never caught any sti before. Sex workers (the majority of them) take pride over their health just as people should and I have never caught a sti before. Well not like I know off although some stis such as HPV I believe people can have that for many years and not know they have that. Maybe someone else can confirm this? 

I started punting in 2012 (I believe) and still punt to this day and I have always got given the all clear when I have had a sexual health screening. 

Congrats on the clear result

Thanks 

[puntingking]

See the above post 

[Strawberry]

I can honestly say I have never caught any sti before. Sex workers (the majority of them) take pride over their health just as people should and I have never caught a sti before. Well not like I know off although some stis such as HPV I believe people can have that for many years and not know they have that. Maybe someone else can confirm this? 

I started punting in 2012 (I believe) and still punt to this day and I have always got given the all clear when I have had a sexual health screening. 







Thanks 

"Most people will have some form of HPV in their lives", "There are more than 100 types", "They're easy to catch";

External Link/Members Only

As the article explains HPV is often cleared by the immune system, I would guess that means many people will 'have' it but then it's eliminated from the body ie not know they have had it.

[jaj909]

I can honestly say I have never caught any sti before. Sex workers (the majority of them) take pride over their health just as people should and I have never caught a sti before. Well not like I know off although some stis such as HPV I believe people can have that for many years and not know they have that. Maybe someone else can confirm this? 

I started punting in 2012 (I believe) and still punt to this day and I have always got given the all clear when I have had a sexual health screening.

fascinating. i hear a fair bit from veterans, "ive punted twice a week since 1970, all owo, and never got so much as a cold!"

[KatieEdinburgh]

"Most people will have some form of HPV in their lives", "There are more than 100 types", "They're easy to catch";

External Link/Members Only

As the article explains HPV is often cleared by the immune system, I would guess that means many people will 'have' it but then it's eliminated from the body ie not know they have had it.

Yes plus majority of British women under the age of 30 will have been vaccinated for HPV now in schools before they became sexually active, reducing risk even further

Which by the way is absolutely amazing news for cancer rates too
“No cervical cancer cases have been detected in fully vaccinated women following the Human papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation at age 12-13, in the 16 years since the programme started in Scotland, research has found”

[RandomGuy99]

I got an STI from OWO from a Hungarian MILF. I had a quick test at local GUM clinic and got prescribed anti-biototics and it was gone within 14 days.

[Colston36]

fascinating. i hear a fair bit from veterans, "ive punted twice a week since 1970, all owo, and never got so much as a cold!"

The only time I ever caught anything was G from a 17 year-old Polish girl, who didn't know she had it, 70 years ago. I am marginally ashamed to confess that never having been able to manage condoms I fucked my bare-back way round the world without causing any trouble to myself or any partner or wife. Irresponsible, pig-ignorant and bloody lucky.

[Strawberry]

Yes plus majority of British women under the age of 30 will have been vaccinated for HPV now in schools before they became sexually active, reducing risk even further

Which by the way is absolutely amazing news for cancer rates too
“No cervical cancer cases have been detected in fully vaccinated women following the Human papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation at age 12-13, in the 16 years since the programme started in Scotland, research has found”

Yes and some older ones have received the vaccination, however the vaccine only covers the most harmful types. So perhaps that's what should be specified when talking about HPV. I am tested for the harmful types as part of cervical cancer screening, never had a positive for those types BUT that does not mean I have not had those types and my immune has dealt with it. Just means was not present at time of testing. But I decided to buy the vaccine anyway.

[puntingking]

"Most people will have some form of HPV in their lives", "There are more than 100 types", "They're easy to catch";

External Link/Members Only

As the article explains HPV is often cleared by the immune system, I would guess that means many people will 'have' it but then it's eliminated from the body ie not know they have had it.

 

[puntingking]

fascinating. i hear a fair bit from veterans, "ive punted twice a week since 1970, all owo, and never got so much as a cold!"

 

[puntingking]

I got an STI from OWO from a Hungarian MILF. I had a quick test at local GUM clinic and got prescribed anti-biototics and it was gone within 14 days.

Seems very straight forward. I'm glad to hear that it cleared up for you. 

[puntingking]

The only time I ever caught anything was G from a 17 year-old Polish girl, who didn't know she had it, 70 years ago. I am marginally ashamed to confess that never having been able to manage condoms I fucked my bare-back way round the world without causing any trouble to myself or any partner or wife. Irresponsible, pig-ignorant and bloody lucky.

[jaj909]

The only time I ever caught anything was G from a 17 year-old Polish girl, who didn't know she had it, 70 years ago. I am marginally ashamed to confess that never having been able to manage condoms I fucked my bare-back way round the world without causing any trouble to myself or any partner or wife. Irresponsible, pig-ignorant and bloody lucky.

What about condoms were unmanageable? Do you think it's a generational or personal thing? It's surprising since you also lived through AIDS (before there were any treatments), though i suppose at the time it was seen as the gay disease that didn't effect the straights.

[puntingking]

What about condoms were unmanageable? Do you think it's a generational or personal thing? It's surprising since you also lived through AIDS (before there were any treatments), though i suppose at the time it was seen as the gay disease that didn't effect the straights.

To be honest, when I first started out I didn't care if i had bareback sex with a sp to start with. But as I grew older I became more wiser and knew more about the risk that I decided to not have bareback sex with a sp again. 

Education is the answer when punters are barebacking. Most of them are naive and some of them think that they are somehow immune to sexual transmitted infections. 

The scariest thing and the most dreadiest thing to have to catch is HIV. I rather have protected sex for all the rest of my days then catch that.
Prevention is better than cure. Not to mention that HIV can never be cured anyway.