Window Period
The window period in HIV refers to the time between when a person is first infected with HIV and when the infection can be detected by a test. During this period, the person may have the virus in their body and can transmit it to others, but standard HIV tests might still show a negative result. The window period usually lasts from 2 to 12 weeks depending on the type of test used. That’s why it’s important to repeat testing if a recent exposure is suspected.