Author Topic: Worried about risk (Read 12680 times)

Needtorelax2020 · « **on:** March 08, 2018, 09:12:02 am »

Hi
16 days ago I had an experience with a transsexual escort. We engaged in oral both ways, rinming both ways and I rubbed my penis against her anus and arse cheeks and she did the same. I know that I definitely did not penetrate but she pushed quite hard against me. I'm quite sure she didn't penetrate but part of me is wondering if she did. I have been for tests for other stds but know I have to wait 2 more weeks to test properly. I can't sleep and constantly feel sick with worry.
Please can someone advise as to my risk.
Thank you.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #1 on:** March 08, 2018, 09:36:49 am »

Hi

If you were penetrated you would have known about it. Sounds like a lot of angst over nothing.

The only thing you mentioned here with any level of HIV risk was given a BJ. Now your mouth has dozens of protein and enzymes that damage the virus and render it unable to infect. Your mouth without damage such as meth mouth simply lacks the cells for HIV to infect.

Its such a near negligible risk we don not recommend testing over it, so there is no need to run test every time you give a blow job.

My advice is to move on with your life, put this behind you. Going forward continue to use condoms for any intercourse and test as normal routine for STI's and HIV at least yearly.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #2 on:** March 10, 2018, 07:46:20 am »

Thanks for the response.

It is now 18 days since exposure. I have got two pimpels that look to he red and blood filled on my back. I also have a sore on the inside of my cheek.

Thinking back to the encounter I am sure there was no penetration however I'm still worried especially about the above symptoms.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #3 on:** March 10, 2018, 07:56:54 am »

Pimples & sores in your mouth have nothing to do with HIV. See a doctor about them and treat it.

You had no real world exposure, no reason to worry or test. Move on with your life

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #4 on:** March 23, 2018, 05:23:03 am »

Hi- I am still very worried. 31 days post exposure now. I had a dry cough for the last week and today I have developed a canker sore in my bottom front gum. My gums have also bled slightly. This is really causing me problems. The worry is hard to deal with.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #5 on:** March 23, 2018, 05:40:43 am »

Quote

Pimples & sores in your mouth have nothing to do with HIV. See a doctor about them and treat it.

I mean you well but regardless of your hiv status this has nothing to do with hiv.

Also you had no real world exposure, no reason to worry or test.

Move on with your life, use condoms for any intercourse and test out of normal routine at least yearly for STIs & HIV

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #6 on:** November 25, 2018, 07:43:41 am »

I am hoping you can advise me on what risk level I have from an encounter last night.

I met with a transsexual sex worker. We engaged in kissing, mutual masterbation, oral both ways with a condom. Anal both ways with a condom although I don’t believe she fully penetrated me as it was painful. I was intoxicated and I believe she put the condoms securely. When I took mine off it was definitely on ok. My main worry is I can’t be 100% sure of any holes and fully secure etc.

I am hoping you can advise on risk? The thought already of waiting 3 months for a conclusive result is painful. Would prep be a good option? I have a beautiful wife and family at home and can’t believe I have done this :-(.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #7 on:** November 25, 2018, 08:24:51 am »

If condoms fail during intercourse they shred leaving no doubt. The condom did not shred , so no HIV concern and you need to get over it.

Quote

Would prep be a good option?

Taking PrEP as an additional layer of protection so that should you ever have a condom failure you have that additional protection is not a bad idea. Talk to your health care provider on your suitablliy for PrEP.

Quote

I have a beautiful wife

Aha ... If you plan to have or have been engaging in unprotected intercourse with your wife, my risk is assessment of this is although i don't judge couples that decide to engage in unprotected intercourse, as its often based on trust within a relationship, it is a HIV to you !

Trust or faith does not prevent HIV and any unprotected intercourse is simply accepting a possible risk to you of acquiring HIV and a greater risk of easier to transmit STIs.

Here's what you need to know in order to avoid hiv infection:
Use condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse, correctly and consistently, every time, no exceptions. Consider PrEP as an additional layer of protection against HIV

Keep in mind that some sexual practices which may be described as ‘safe’ in terms of HIV transmission might still pose a risk for transmission of other STI's, so please do get fully tested regularly and at least yearly for all STI's including but not limited to HIV and test more frequently if unprotected intercourse occurs

Also note that it is possible to have an STI and show no signs or symptoms and the only way of knowing is by testing.

More information on HIV Basics, PEP, TaSP and Transmission can be found through the links in my signature to our POZ pages, this includes information on HIV Testing

Kind regards

Jim

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As a member of the AM I Infected Forum you are required to only post in this one thread no matter how long between visits or the subject matter. You can find this thread by going to your profile and selecting show own post and it will take you here . It helps us to help you when you keep all your thoughts or questions in one thread and it helps other readers to follow the discussion. Any additional threads will be deleted.

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #8 on:** November 25, 2018, 08:39:33 am »

Hi Jim,
Thanks for your quick reply and thanks for the advice that you and others provide on this site.

To confirm- there is no reason to test on this occasion and looking into prep is not required on this occasion?

I think I understand your point in that the actual risk is having unprotected sex with my wife and not what happened yesterday. I get what your saying but I don’t believe I have any worries on that score. That is why I’ve raised this post so quickly to see what I need to do as I could not live with myself I’d i passed anything to her.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #9 on:** November 25, 2018, 08:49:13 am »

Quote

I think I understand your point in that the actual risk is having unprotected sex with my wife and not what happened yesterday. I get what your saying but I don’t believe I have any worries on that score.

Well I've fairly warned you and my assessment is it's a risk. It's a common mistake that many members here have made, but up to you.

Quote

To confirm- there is no reason to test on this occasion and looking into prep is not required on this occasion?

Correct, it's was no HIV risk, so no testing required, no PEP "Post Exposure Prophylaxis" required, simply move on with your life.

As for PrEP "Pre-exposure prophylaxis" this is something to consider taking as additional layer of protection going forward as it will also offer a layer of HIV protection from your wife!

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #10 on:** November 26, 2018, 04:19:53 am »

OK thanks Jim. I understand that unprotected sex with partner is a risk in itself and I appreciate that it is based on trust. On that subject, do you think I can have unprotected sex with my wife after this weekends incident or should I wait for a 28 day test to be safe?

Jim Allen · « **Reply #11 on:** November 26, 2018, 04:42:03 am »

Quote

this weekends incident

Asked and answered already. You can ask me 50 different ways and the answer will remain the same. I am not sure how to make it more clear?

Quote

Correct, it's was no HIV risk, so no testing required, no PEP "Post Exposure Prophylaxis" required, simply move on with your life.

Perhaps ill just say, if you post about this no-risk weekend scenario again you will be risking a time out from the forum. I am not sure what has you so bothered, guilt perhaps who knows but whatever it is it simply does not equal a HIV concern.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #12 on:** November 29, 2018, 07:21:36 am »

Hi Jim,

Apologies to bother you again and this will be my last post until I test.

It’s now 5 days since exposure. I have developed a single white blister on the inside of my mouth. Upon researching online it appears to be a canker sore. Could this symptom this early be a sign that maybe the condom broke or slipped and I should be worried ? I have now missed the prep window so this is an added worry.

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #13 on:** November 29, 2018, 07:30:48 am »

Quote

It’s now 5 days since exposure.

You had no exposure 5 days ago, I am not going to "pretend" you did, so banned for 28 days due to excessive posting regarding a no-risk scenario and let me be very clear if you ever do acquire HIV it was certainly not from this incident- End of story.

See your GP regarding whatever you think is wrong with your mouth and treat it.
Continue to use condoms for any intercourse and test out of standard routine like every sexually active adult should at least yearly for easier to transmit STI's & HIV

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #14 on:** January 10, 2019, 06:45:38 am »

Hi Jim

Sorry to post again. I take on board you’re previous advice and I tested after 26 days and I know as you said I had no wxpoaure I was going to leave it there.

On wed evening I met a transsexual. We engaged in unprotected oral and I was the top with a condom. She ejaculated on my chest.

From what I have read I don’t think I was exposed so guess I am posting for reassurance and to see whether I should look at prep as an option.

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #15 on:** January 10, 2019, 07:02:42 am »

Hiya,

Relax already

Getting your penis sucked is no HIV risk whatsoever
Ejaculation on your chest is no HIV risk whatsoever

given a BJ. Now your mouth has dozens of protein and enzymes that damage the virus and render it unable to infect. Your mouth without damage such as meth mouth simply lacks the cells for HIV to infect.

Its such a near negligible risk we don not recommend testing over it, so there is no need to run test every time you give a blow job.

My advice is to move on with your life, put this behind you.

Going forward continue to use condoms for any intercourse, seriously consider PrEP as an additional layer of HIV prevention and test as normal routine for easier to transmit STI's and HIV at least yearly.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #16 on:** January 10, 2019, 07:47:09 am »

Thanks Jim.

Should I consider prep for this instance. I know it must be used quick and time is ticking and it is now 36 hours since the event. Should I try and make an appointment ASAP? I am sure th condom was Intact throughout the intercourse.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #17 on:** January 10, 2019, 09:12:06 am »

You are confusing "PEP" with "PrEP"
To be clear, nothing you mentioned so far warrants testing, let alone PEP.

PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis, (In Case of Emergency). So if you have a risk like unprotected intercourse as example, this is your emergency medication that you start taking no later than 48-72 hours post exposure for about 30 days to prevent a possible HIV infection from taking hold. PEP is highly effective however should not be counted on and safer sex options like correct condom usage & PrEP are preferred

Quote

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): PEP involves taking a short course of ARV drugs, usually for a month, after a high-risk exposure. To be most effective, PEP should be started immediately after possible exposure, waiting no more than 72 hours.

PrEP on the other-hand is Pre-exposure prophylaxis, (Prevention) it a way for people who do not have HIV but who are sexually active to add an additional layer of prevention against acquiring HIV. It means taking a pill every day that contains two medicines (tenofovir and emtricitabine) .

Think of it like this: In your situation PrEP further reduces the risk of acquiring HIV from your partner who you have condom-less intercourse with, reduces any negligible risks you will have from your causal contacts with regards to HIV and in addition provides a layer of protection should you ever have a condom breakage or have condom-less intercourse with a causal encounter as example

PrEP does not offer any additional protection from other STI's

Quote

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): PrEP is an HIV prevention tool in which an HIV-negative person takes antiretroviral medication to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Currently, the available form of PrEP entails taking the pill Truvada, which is made of two drugs—tenofovir and emtricitabine. When these meds build up in the human body, they can stop HIV from replicating and establishing an infection. PrEP was approved in 2012 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with the requirement that it be used every day, even during periods of minimal or low-risk sexual activity. Future studies are exploring intermittent dosing strategies (for example, using PrEP only during high-risk periods).

https://www.poz.com/basics/hiv-basics/pep-prep

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #18 on:** January 10, 2019, 09:44:40 am »

Hi Jim.
Thanks again for coming back to me and thanks again for the service you provide.

I appreciate you coming back to me and as you say this encounter does not warrent prep then I will leave it but will still test at 28 days for piece of mind. I still have anxiety that the comdom may have broken or I am one of the few % that has caught from oral.

I need to stop having these encounters as even taking the correct precautions I find the stress and anxiety difficult to live with. Despite your assurances which I appreciate I will still be panicked until I am able to test and it causes strain to my relationship.

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #19 on:** January 10, 2019, 09:49:42 am »

Hiya

If the condom broke you would have known about it.

I think if you keep having what I would consider irrational fears, than PrEP might give you some peace of mind for the future, otherwise and I don't say this to be harsh but counselling/face to face therapy to help you cope with your thoughts.

Running out and panicking & testing every-time the wind blows so to speak is simply not actually coping or a healthy/sustainable coping strategy

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #20 on:** January 10, 2019, 12:49:28 pm »

So to confirm -
I do not need to test?
I do not need to see a provider for PEP?
I should consider getting Prep or just not having any encounters at all because of the mental side of things.
Should I not have sex with my partner for 28 days just in case?

Apologies in advance I’m just trying to be rational and final in my post. This will be the last post from me. Thank you.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #21 on:** January 10, 2019, 01:13:56 pm »

Quote

I do not need to test?
I do not need to see a provider for PEP?
I should consider getting Prep

Correct

Quote

just not having any encounters at all because of the mental side of things.

Up-to-you

Quote

Should I not have sex with my partner for 28 days just in case?

We have been over the partner thing before, nobody here is going to say unprotected intercourse is safe - Not going to happen, so what you do do or don't do with the partner is up to the two of you.

If you plan to have or have been engaging in unprotected intercourse with your wife, my risk is assessment of this is although i don't judge couples that decide to engage in unprotected intercourse, as its often based on trust within a relationship, it is a HIV to you !

Trust or faith does not prevent HIV and any unprotected intercourse is simply accepting a possible risk to you of acquiring HIV and a greater risk of easier to transmit STIs.

You are both adults, she is an adult and if she has sex with you she accepts the risk just like you do for yourself when having sex with her.

Quote

Apologies in advance I’m just trying to be rational and final in my post.

You're welcome.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #22 on:** March 13, 2019, 03:47:10 am »

Hi
Sorry to bother you. Last Thursday (6 days ago) I met a girl (CSW). She gave me a blowjob for a very short period of time. I didnt have full sex with her. I believed this was a low risk exposure. However 3 days afterwards I developed very bad you symptoms and 5 days after (yesterday and today);I have developed a rash on my chest. I know these are both symptoms of exposure. Can they show this quickly normally? I believe the girl falls into high risk category (where she was from and drug user) which is making me even more worried.

Thank you for your help.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #23 on:** March 13, 2019, 04:07:24 am »

Her personal risk category is irreverent, see although HIV disproportionately in some regions affects people from certain groups, HIV can affect anyone regardless of Class, Wealth, Social standing, Sexual orientation, Race, Ethnicity, Gender or Age. HIV is simply a virus that affects all walks of life, nothing more than that.

So at the end of the day your risk is not from who you do it with. Its all about your own behavior; What you do and how you do it that is a HIV risk or not.

Regarding this encounter, let me correct you there, this is not a "low" HIV risk activity its simply "no" HIV risk.

Getting your penis sucked is not a HIV risk, saliva is not infectious, it also contains over a dozen elements that neutralize HIV. It lacks exposure and the conditions required, let me put it this way to you, after nearly 40 years of the HIV pandemic in terms of BJ's there hasn’t been a single documented case of HIV transmission to an insertive partner (the person being "sucked") and you will not be the worlds first.

The symptoms you mentioned could be anything or nothing at all, one thing we do know is its not HIV from this encounter that much is certain. See a doctor and treat whatever is making you sick and I hope you feel better soon.

Best, Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #24 on:** November 26, 2019, 02:34:25 am »

Hi

It has been a while since I posted so firstly thank you again for the service you provide for all the anxious people out there.

3 days ago I met a transsexual escort. We engaged in frottage, unprotected oral and rinming (no anal sex). I am not sure but she hinted that she may be hiv positive.

As I knew we were meeting I took prep 7 days before the meeting to try and reduce my anxiety afterwards however this has not helped. I haven’t taken any since as I didn’t think it would help?

I understand I need to test for other stis when possible but I am so worried about hiv and I realise that these meetings are not worth the anxiety they bring me.

Any advice would be much appreciated as I am struggling to sleep etc due to worry .

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #25 on:** November 26, 2019, 03:21:54 am »

Hiya,

Quote

3 days ago I met a transsexual escort. We engaged in frottage, unprotected oral and rinming (no anal sex).

The only near negligible risk from what you mentioned would be giving a blowjob, the rest was no HIV risk. See generally speaking the mouth simply lacks route (Cells to infect) for HIV, and even if there was damage to your mouth creating route than saliva neutralize HIV by damaging the receptors needed to infect human cells.

All in all, giving a blowjob is such a minute concern with regards to HIV that we don't even recommend specifically testing over it. No need to panic, stress or run out and start testing, relax and just get tested whenever you are next normally due a routine check-up.

Quote

As I knew we were meeting I took prep 7 days before the meeting to try and reduce my anxiety afterwards however this has not helped. I haven’t taken any since as I didn’t think it would help?

Look PrEP is highly effective but it's not a guarantee, now ill stress that you did not have any real-world risk to stress about from this event in the first place but if you do want PrEP to continue to work for you than you have to continue to take it.

If you are struggling with daily PrEP there is also PrEP on-demand dosing for peace of mind but currently, to my knowledge, it's just recommended for reducing the risk from anal sex so I would recommend you first talk to your doctor to see if PrEP on demand would be more suitable for you. In short, this would be the dosing schedule

take 2 pills 2 – 24 hours before sex
take 1 pill 24 hours later
take 1 more pill 24 hours after that

If you’re having sex for an extended period of time, perhaps over a few days or a weekend, continue to take a pill every 24 hours until you have 2 sex-free days.

Jim

https://www.who.int/hiv/pub/prep/211/en/

https://www.poz.com/article/endorses-ondemand-prep-gay-bi-men

https://www.aidsmap.com/news/jul-2018/demand-dosing-effective-daily-dosing-first-year-french-prep-study

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #26 on:** November 26, 2019, 03:43:41 am »

Thanks for the advice Jim.

When you say no real world risk what does that mean regarding the risk factor as a whole? I am panicking. I will test at 4 weeks and 3 months as I know they are the window period. I feel so guilty as I do have a partner and I think my guilt is playing a part with my emotions. I will avoid sex with my partner until I get conclusive results but again this is something that causes problems between us.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #27 on:** November 26, 2019, 04:17:26 am »

I recommend you give some real thought on counselling/face to face therapy to help you cope with your thoughts and fears because freaking out and the merry-go-round of panicking & testing every-time you have sex is not actually coping or a healthy/sustainable coping strategy

Also, stop looking for risks by cherry-picking my comments completely out of context, I'm not going to go another round with you entertaining irrational anxiety, guilt or the merry-go-round of testing over nothing.

Quote from: Lincolnguy88 on November 26, 2019, 03:43:41 am

When you say no real world risk what does that mean regarding the risk factor as a whole?

Asked and answered about this encounter, very clearly if you read the post fully!

- The only near negligible risk from what you mentioned would be giving a blowjob, the rest was no HIV risk . See generally speaking the mouth simply lacks route (Cells to infect) for HIV, and even if there was damage to your mouth creating route than saliva neutralize HIV by damaging the receptors needed to infect human cells.

All in all, giving a blowjob is such a minute concern with regards to HIV that we don't even recommend specifically testing over it. No need to panic, stress or run out and start testing, relax and just get tested whenever you are next normally due a routine check-up.

Quote

as I do have a partner

We have also discussed this before, unprotected sex regardless of whom it with or your relationship status with that person is simply accepting the real risk of acquiring HIV.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #28 on:** December 11, 2019, 03:22:32 pm »

Hi Jim

It’s 18 days since this incident. I tested yesterday to try and reassure myself but I am now very anxious waiting for the results . I also should have mentioned that we shared a note to do coke ( stupid I know) and I believe there is a small risk of this if she was hiv +.

Since testing yesterday I have started to have flu symptoms. Aches, diarrhoea, fever. As this is 18 days post exposure this worries me even more as this is exactly when I would get those symptoms if I was infected.

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #29 on:** December 11, 2019, 03:54:45 pm »

Sharing a note to snort cocaine is not an HIV risk. Hepatitis theoretically perhaps, if there was blood but I presume it was not a bloody note you were snorting on.

Not to be mean or harsh but if you post about this incident again it's going to lead to a ban for your own wellbeing. Falling to pieces every time over no HIV risk situations or such minute ones they really don't warrant even testing outside of routine is not rational.

I recommend you give some real thought on counselling/face to face therapy to help you cope with your thoughts and fears because what you are doing does not seem like coping or a healthy/sustainable strategy to me.

Now I don't know what other risks you have been engaging in but just as a reminder

Here's what you need to know in order to avoid hiv infection:
Use condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse, correctly and consistently, every time, no exceptions. Consider starting PrEP as an additional layer of HIV protection going forward

Keep in mind that some sexual practices which may be described as ‘safe’ in terms of HIV transmission might still pose a risk for transmission of other STI's, so please do get fully tested regularly and at least yearly for all STI's including but not limited to HIV and test more frequently if unprotected intercourse occurs

Also, note that it is possible to have an STI and show no signs or symptoms and the only way of knowing is by testing.

Kind regards

Jim

Please Note.
As a member of the AM I Infected Forum you are required to only post in this one thread no matter how long between visits or the subject matter. You can find this thread by going to your profile and selecting show own post and it will take you here . It helps us to help you when you keep all your thoughts or questions in one thread and it helps other readers to follow the discussion. Any additional threads will be deleted.

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #30 on:** December 13, 2019, 01:49:14 pm »

Hi Jim

Apologies to post again as I do not want a ban. I know you said oral is a small risk but I worry I have been one of the small percentage. I have aches, a sore throat and fever. I also have a rash on my chest. My anxiety is not good. My partner also has these symptoms so it may be flu (we haven’t had sex since my encounter) but at 19 days post exposure this is a worrying time to get these symptoms. I will not post about this again but I am looking for one final but of advice / reassurance whilst waiting for results as I am very concerned I have been one of the small percentage.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #31 on:** December 13, 2019, 02:11:16 pm »

Banned

I wish you well but falling to pieces every time over no HIV risk situations or such minute ones they really don't warrant even testing outside of routine is not rational and I am not in the position to provide you with the support I think you need.

I recommend you see your doctor and treat whatever is making you sick, instead of stressing about it and I hope you feel better soon. Also, would suggest you give some real thought on counselling/face to face therapy to help you cope with your thoughts and fears because what you are doing does not seem like coping or a healthy/sustainable strategy to me.

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #32 on:** February 18, 2020, 12:16:00 pm »

Hi Jim

Thanks again for the help and service you provide. Your advice previously was all correct of course and I tested negative at 6 weeks.

However I very foolishly had another exposure 48 hours ago which I am very concerned about. It involves a TRansgender csw. It included oral unprotected both ways and protected (I believe ) anal both ways. I am most worried about during the evening I passed out and woke up to her pushing against my anus. I had had a lot to drink so not sure if there was penetration at this stage but think there could have been. I have an appointment tomorrow at the local clinic and will ask for PEP. This will be 60 hours post exposure. Will this work? I have read differing opinions on 48/72 hours to start this? Can you provide any advice to the above exposure.

I realise I have been here before and feel so foolish posting another exposure. This will be the last time. It is mentally draining. Anxiety relating to sexual incidents dominates all thoughts of my life. I had only recently got a 6 week negative and here I am again with a new situation.

Thanks again for your help. I will try not to post the same questions as before. I am feeling extremely anxious and low regarding the whole situation at the moment.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #33 on:** February 18, 2020, 12:40:58 pm »

Quote

Your advice previously was all correct of course and I tested negative at 6 weeks.

Had to think for a moment, but as far as I can recall you had no issue that warranted testing, except for the ongoing exposure from your partner, hence the ban.

Quote

However I very foolishly had another exposure 48 hours ago which I am very concerned about. It involves a TRansgender csw. It included oral unprotected both ways and protected (I believe ) anal both ways. I am most worried about during the evening I passed out and woke up to her pushing against my anus. I had had a lot to drink so not sure if there was penetration at this stage but think there could have been. I have an appointment tomorrow at the local clinic and will ask for PEP. This will be 60 hours post exposure. Will this work? I have read differing opinions on 48/72 hours to start this? Can you provide any advice to the above exposure.

Giving a blowjob and the intercourse, I'm not going to repeat what I've already said before about these activities. As for pushing against your anus, it's not an HIV risk.

The only concern is that you passed out, so you don't know for sure what happened. Studies have shown PEP is highly effective when started within 72 hours, though the theory is the sooner post-exposure the better and some clinics, will not prescribe PEP after 48 hours.

Best, Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #34 on:** February 19, 2020, 06:05:03 am »

Hi Jim

thanks for your response. I promise this will be my last post as I don’t want to be asking endless questions like before.

I went to the clinic today. They took bloods to check liver and kidneys? Gave me a hep b jab and then said I could go ahead with pep which I have now started roughly 55-60 hours post exposure.

I wanted to ask that when I past out and was woken up. If there was unprotected penetration what would my risk be given that I have now started pep. I have not slept and eaten since Sunday night. The doctor also asked me today to see her to discuss my anxiety’s in 2 weeks time when they will conduct a full screening. I appreciate your thoughts and help.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #35 on:** February 19, 2020, 06:52:04 am »

Quote

If there was unprotected penetration what would my risk be given that I have now started pep.

PEP is highly effective if taken correctly for the length of the course. I would fully expect you to test negative if you take the PEP correctly. Do test but see the testing as something to simply confirm your negative status.

Quote

The doctor also asked me today to see her to discuss my anxiety’s

Yeah, reading back your thread, to be honest, you have had some very irrational fears regarding sex and HIV. A professional therapist to help you cope with your thoughts and fears would be something to consider.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #36 on:** February 28, 2020, 01:54:49 pm »

Hi Jim

Sorry to bother you again. I don’t see the nurse/therapist until Tuesday and I have some questions on my mind. Thanks again for your help.

1- it’s now 12 days since exposure and I have a sore throat and dry cough. I am also slightly bunged up and feel achey. Stating the obvious but these flu symptoms are a bad sign?

2 - I have taken PEP since 60 hours post exposure. Say the worst happened and I was penetrates when I passed out. What would my chances be of being OK? I am sure there was no ejaculation whatever happened if that information helps.

3- I take pep at 630am and 630-7pm. Is this OK? Do the timings matter?

Sorry to post again but I’m going through agony waiting. The cold that I have now has made me worry even more.

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #37 on:** February 28, 2020, 07:13:48 pm »

Hiya,

Quote

The cold that I have now has made me worry even more.

1) Sore throat with a dry cough, it's a sign of just about everything and nothing at all but not HIV. See your doctor and treat whatever is making you feel unwell.

2) Answered already.

Quote

PEP is highly effective if taken correctly for the length of the course. I would fully expect you to test negative if you take the PEP correctly. Do test but see the testing as something to simply confirm your negative status.

3) I presume you have been given two different pills, each to be taken 1x daily? If so then generally taking one of the pills daily at 6:30 am and the other at 6:30-7 pm is fine unless you have been instructed otherwise.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #38 on:** February 29, 2020, 04:41:42 am »

Hi Jim

Thanks for the reply.

I was instructed to take x1 raltegravir and x1 tenofovir in the morning and x1 raltegravir in the evening. No times were specified just 1 once and day and 1 twice a day. Today I slept through my alarm and rather than the normal 0630 I took first doses at 930. Again will this cause a problem? I have not missed any doses since I started.

I appreciate what your saying about feeling unwell but it just seems to be a coincidence and I guess I justhave to have faith that PEp will work.

Thank you again

Jim Allen · « **Reply #39 on:** February 29, 2020, 05:55:12 am »

Hiya

Look the drugs have a very good half-life so a few hours difference isn't going to make any difference but do try to take them at the same timings each day

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #40 on:** March 01, 2020, 12:00:01 pm »

One final question Jim.

How many instances have you seen of PEP not being effective since you have been on this site? I am taking every dose. There have been occasions where it has been a couple of hours late but no missed doses.

I am very concerned as although my sore throat and cough at subsiding I am now feeling very fatigued and short of breath at times. This is now almost 14 days since the incident. Everything you read online say symptoms will start 2-4 weeks in.

This is very concerning and I guess it is why I’m looking for reassurance at how effective pep is??

Thank you

Jim Allen · « **Reply #41 on:** March 01, 2020, 12:40:40 pm »

PEP is highly effective and most of your questions are rather irrelevant and comes from overthinking things.

I doubt you had an exposure to start with but if you did PEP is so effective I expect nothing less than a negative HIV result when you test.

In the meantime stop focusing on this, live your life as normal

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #42 on:** March 02, 2020, 10:55:34 am »

Thanks Jim.

I am having very bad thoughts. My current symptoms are as follows - sore throat, cough, fatigue, muscle aches - I think I also have swollen lymph nodes.

I have messaged the person that I met asking what happened and also if they know their status but I know you will tell me to mind my own business on that score. I am just trying to do anything to put my mind at rest. The above symptom's make me think that maybe PEP was started too late at 60 hours? I will keep taking it but I am feeling like there is only going to be one outcome.

Am I able to take flu medication to help with my above symptoms ? I did not want to take anything that could react with the PEP.

Sorry again for messaging. I was feeling optimistic after starting PEP in the correct timeframe but the symptoms I have had the last 5 / 6 days (8 - 14 days post exposure) have made me think the worst and I am unable to concentrate on anything.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #43 on:** March 02, 2020, 02:55:20 pm »

I'll get back to you shortly

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #44 on:** March 03, 2020, 05:27:29 am »

Hi Jim,

Sorry to post again - my appointment is tomorrow and I am feeling very worried and this board is very helpful. This will be my last post as I know I can't continuously post on here.

My main questions at the moment regarding the flu symptoms - I have had flu symptoms for the last week - blocked nose, cough, sore throat, fatigued, nauseus. I was feeling optimistic about this after starting PEP but I am at rock bottom now with these symptoms.

I guess my main questions are - 1 - say there was unprotected intercourse (no ejaculation)and the person was HIV positive. I started PEP after 60 hours, I have not missed any doses (I counted the pills this morning) but I have taken some doses a couple of hours late. What are my statistical chances of being OK?
2- Can I take flu medication whilst taking PEP? I haven't wanted to take anything to interact with it?
3 - I am going to speak to the therapist tomorrow to try and discuss stress and anxiety but I appreciate the support from this board.

Thanks.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #45 on:** March 03, 2020, 07:46:22 am »

1) Read back my answers so far, that's as good as its going to get.
2) depends on what flu meds, talk to your pharmacist
3) a very good idea

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #46 on:** March 04, 2020, 09:34:33 am »

Thanks Jim. I have been for my appointment today. They did all tests etc. They weren’t going to do hiv but did in the end because of how anxious I am about the symptoms.

The nurse said that she had not come across a positive case in 15 years of working if pep was started in 72 hours which was reassuring. However I now have really bad sinus pain and headache. So much so I am going to bed for the day which never happens. Considering I am never unwell I can’t see any other reason other than i am one of the unlucky ones

Jim Allen · « **Reply #47 on:** March 04, 2020, 09:43:54 am »

Hiya,

So far none of the symptom mentioned are HIV specific, and some of them totally unrelated regardless of your HIV status.

The Nurse is correct it's would be very rare as I have also mentioned. PEP is highly effective if taken correctly for the length of the course. I would fully expect you to test negative if you take the PEP correctly and that's if you actually had exposure and to be frank with you I doubt you even did.

Do test but see the testing as something to simply confirm your negative status.
Now stop focusing on this in the meantime, you are creating totally unnecessary stress for yourself.

Jim

Needtorelax2020 · « **Reply #48 on:** March 06, 2020, 10:21:51 am »

Hi Jim,

Thanks for replying and I'm sorry to post again but this is the only place where I have people to talk to and the thoughts are with me 24/7.

I am having severe symptoms still - nauseus, very fatigued, sinus bunged up and worst of all today there was a very slight rash on my chest and swollen lymph nodes in my groin. i have also lost weight and have no appetite at all.

I know you won't appreciate me posting this on here as the worrying does no good but whilst PEP is said to be effective I have been reading up on the 0.5 failure rate and I just think i must be in the small percentage when i have these symptoms. I am never ill and all of the above at once just seem to be too much of a coincidence.

I am sorry to post again but with these updated symptoms i feel at rock bottom.

Jim Allen · « **Reply #49 on:** March 06, 2020, 10:27:32 am »

1) I used the bathroom this morning
2) Immediately afterwards, it began raining
3) Therefore, my urination caused the rain

So far your symptoms are not HIV specific and most of them totally unrelated regardless of your HIV status. Stop focusing and/or stressing about it, instead see your GP and treat whatever is making you sick.

Don't post about symptoms again!

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