Do I need to get tested again?

Question

If I had a complete STD screening 5 weeks after initial contact and 10 days after final contact, can I assume I'm all clear? That was 3 months ago and I am having an HIV test done this week. Should I be concerned any further?

Clarification: All tests were negative and no symptoms (past or present) of infection. Plan to re-test for HIV at 6 month mark as well. Just want to be safe.

Answer 1

"At present, there is no recognized standard for establishing the presence or absence of antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 in human blood."

This comes from the insert from the abbott test. You tell me if, after reading this disclaimer, should you ever be tested in the first place.

Answer 2

Just a reminder. Most STD screenings do not include testing for herpes 1 &2. Make sure that you request it be included in the testing, since the majority of those infected with it never have any obvious symptoms.

Most STD's take longer than 5 weeks to show a positive result even if you have contracted them. It is best to be tested again at 3 months and again at 6. Some will require additional testing beyond 6 months.

If you are sexually active during this time, you need to start the testing clock all over again with each sexual act.

Answer 3

The most important risk is that of HIV. Normal tests for HIV may take 6 months after contact to be positive. You need specific test called 'p24 assay' before this period if there is high risk i.e., unprotected contact with a person who is HIV + or has multiple partners, and HIV test repeated at 6 months (if negative previously) . Also if there is high suspicion that the person is HIV+ then you have to take antiHIV medicines as a precaution even if standard HIV tests are negative

Answer 4

For your own source of comfort and relief, you should continue to be tested. You were tested 3 months ago and I assume with 'negative' results? If you are having an HIV test done this week - ask your physician when you should be tested again. If you test negative this time - I would wait 9 months and test again. KEEP IN MIND - THE TIME PERIODS BETWEEN TESTING YOU MUST ENGAGE IN ABSTINENCE OR PROTECTED sex. I don't know - this kind of thing would scare the hell out of me. I don't think that I'd want sex again after the first scare. You know that once you are diagnosed with HIV/, the possibility of AIDS is not far behind....you can carry the virus and it never blows into AIDS - those are the lucky people - Please be careful with your health. You only have one life to live - God bless you in your health completely and totally.

Answer 5

Only if you are having symptoms of infection. The HIV can sit dormant for up to 6 months, so keep getting tested for it until then. Otherwise ask your doctor about any other infections you may get and how long to worry about them.

Answer 6

You're doing exactly what you should be doing! Be proud of yourself for being sexually responsible (despite the lack of protected sex). You can assume that you're all clear at your HIV re-test at the six month mark. I wish everyone were as responsible for sexual health as you are. Well wishes for your tests, use a condom next time. Oh you should probably make any future partners get tested before you engage in naughty time in the future as well.

Answer 7

Every 6 months get tested for HIV- it can lie dormant for a long, long time. Changes are, other mild STD's came back negative then you are fine.

Answer 8

no you are fine. Sex is not so dangerous as all these nittering nannies are telling you. I've had a lot of sex and am fine, happy, and have a lot of great memories.

Answer 9

You should always be concerned anytime you have unprotected sex. I recommend that you have protected sex it will relieve a lot
of anxiety.

Answer 10

sounds like you've got it covered. why you so concerned? hope you are just being cautious!