Am I at risk after protected sex and negative HIV tests?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had protected sex with a sex worker, and according to my knowledge, the condom did not break or slip. Can I contract HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)? I took an HIV combo test, CMIA (Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immuno Assay) method, on the 28th day, and the result came negative. Again, on the 35th day and 41st day, both were negative. Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Following are the answers to your query: Condoms are an excellent way to protect not only from HIV but also from other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and if you have used the condom correctly and it did not slip off or break, it is unlikely you contract HIV if your partner is HIV infected. It is always recommended to check the expiration date before using it. Also, at every time of sex, a new condom should be used, and water-based lubricants are always recommended with it.

The risk of exposure is dependent on the length of time that has passed since the condom was initially put in. No type of condom is 100 % effective against HIV or any STI (sexually transmitted infection), but if you and your partner are having sex, nothing protects you better than a properly used condom. Using a latex male condom can greatly reduce but not entirely eliminate the risk of HIV or any other STI. You increase your risk of contracting HIV, and for that matter, any other STI, if you have multiple partners. It is really good that your HIV test is negative on the 28th, 35th, and 41st day post-exposure. But, as per the recommendations, I still suggest a repeat HIV rapid test at three months, and if negative, then at six months. You need not repeat in between.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.