Just seeking an expert opinion.

[worriedNJ]

Hi,

First off, I have been looking through these boards the last couple days and can't tell you how much I appreciate what you do here, its a really amazing resource for scared (sometimes paranoid!) people seeking impartial and knowledgeable advice.

I know you will probably tell me I'm at very low risk, given what I have read, but humour me anyway please.

About a week ago I met up with a guy in NYC who I met through a gay website.. not a good idea, I know, though he did say he is HIV negative if that can count for anything. Anyway, we met up, made out, gave each other oral sex and then jerked off together. He came first, on my stomach, and then really very quickly scooped up some of his cum and used it to masturbate me to completion. It happened very fast and I didn't quite realise until it was already too late. In the past, I have always avoided semen and pre-cum coming anywhere near my genitals and have been quite worried since this happened. After looking through your website I was very reassured that I was at a negligible risk as a result of this episode. However, on another foundation's website I found a link to this article: http://tinyurl.com/qlky9m which has got me worried. I have had herpes for about a year and a half, and worry how this might impact on my risk, given the new scientific findings contained in that article. I have only ever had actual lesions around my anus (a pain in the ass let me tell you), and not on my penis as far as i know. Could I have had 'sores' on my penis without realising it, which sounds stupid even as i ask, but I'm not entirely certain how the HSV works internally and thought maybe there were sites on my penis too, just perhaps not as bad as on my bottom. I had no outbreak at the time, though within three days did have an outbreak, the first and worst in a while (could this signify anything?). Please just assess my risk, given this new scientific information, from receiving the handjob with the other man's semen. I know I'm probably overreacting, but as a young gay man I do take my sexual health seriously.

For background, I had my last sexual health checkup at the end of January. Everything came back negative (they didnt test for HSV as there were no lesions at the time). Since then I have had two sexual contacts, including last week's. The previous one we engaged in the same activities as with last weeks, minus the semen on dick..

Sorry for being longwinded and I know its probably an overreaction, but with this new info just wanted to see what you all think. Thanks so so much in advance!

WINJ-er

[RapidRod]

Masturbation with HSV2 or not and using semen for lube is not a risk. HIV is not transmitted outside it's host.

[Andy Velez]

The only confirmed risks for sexual transmission of HIV are unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse. Everything else sexually is strictly theoretical as far risk for transmission.

You are worrying needlessly. No matter what spin you put on a masturbatory situation there is no risk. HIV is a fragile virus and is absolutely not transmitted in that manner. Period.

There's no need for further concern nor for testing.

[worriedNJ]

Exactly what I thought you would say, but appreciate the confirmation nevertheless. Thanks to you both for your patience and help!

[Andy Velez]

You're welcome. Now get on with your life.