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Can protected sex with commercial sex workers cause HIV?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had protected sex with a commercial sex worker four days ago. And also, three years ago, I had HSV (herpes simplex virus) 1, and IgM (immunoglobulin) was greater than 3.5. I have to discuss STD (sexually transmitted disease).

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra is a Community Medicine Specialist dedicated to promoting public health and preventive care. His expertise includes epidemiology, health education, disease prevention programs, community health assessments, and policy planning. He is committed to improving population health outcomes through research, awareness campaigns, and evidence-based interventions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The chances of transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) by single protected intercourse are nil if the condom is used correctly. HSV IgM (herpes simplex virus immunoglobulin M) positive implies recent infection. HSV can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, kissing, or as an STD (sexually transmitted disease). If there are active lesions, the chances of transmission to the partner are high.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for answering. The IgM results were positive before three years. I never had any lesions. But last month, I had a cut type on my genitals, and it healed in two or three days. The only concern is that I have had some burning sensation in my feet, thighs, and genitals for the past three years, but not regularly. And my genitals are also moist all the time. My vitamin B12 is also deficient is at 96 pg/mL. I want to know that whether I need PEP or not.

Answered by Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra is a Community Medicine Specialist dedicated to promoting public health and preventive care. His expertise includes epidemiology, health education, disease prevention programs, community health assessments, and policy planning. He is committed to improving population health outcomes through research, awareness campaigns, and evidence-based interventions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If the condom is intact and used properly, then the chances of HIV transmission are nil. You may not need PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). You can discuss with your doctor in detail for assessment of the need for PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). PEP for HIV has to be initiated as early as possible post-exposure, not later than 72 hours. If beyond 72 hours, then there is no benefit of PEP.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sneha Kannan
Published At December 16, 2021
Reviewed At July 11, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra is a Community Medicine Specialist dedicated to promoting public health and preventive care. His expertise includes epidemiology, health education, disease prevention programs, community health assessments, and policy planning. He is committed to improving population health outcomes through research, awareness campaigns, and evidence-based interventions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Kannan is a skilled Dental Surgeon with expertise in providing general dental care, including scaling, fillings, and preventive treatments. She does oral surgery procedures such as extractions and minor surgical interventions. She does procedures in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. She is an expert in doing endodontic treatments such as root canal therapy. She is well-versed in doing procedures in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and smile correction. She can provide pediatric dental care for children’s oral health and preventive treatments. She promotes oral hygiene awareness and preventive dental practices.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra is a Community Medicine Specialist dedicated to promoting public health and preventive care. His expertise includes epidemiology, health education, disease prevention programs, community health assessments, and policy planning. He is committed to improving population health outcomes through research, awareness campaigns, and evidence-based interventions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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