Anxiety About Possible Hiv Infection

[mfs1009]

Hi, I have had condom protected sex with 11 sex workers and escorts since 2009, I have read the other forums on Hiv Prevention, however I cannot put my mind at rest and I have taken an HIV test today ... I am extremely anxious as to what my result will be, the nurse assured me that it should come back negative from the exposures I have mentioned.. I am just very scared and anxious about possible hiv infection.

[mfs1009]

You were and are right, I just got my HIV test results... Did an Elisa 4th Gen and it came back negative. Thank you for you help and your assurances!

[nursegirl6572]

HIV Anxiety is an all too common occurrence. It results from the fear based education out there.  MOST people have very overinflated views about HIV based on that education.  Add to that any guilt or regret one may have over certain encounters (ie infidelity), there's a perfect recipe for anxiety.

I can assure you that if you used a condom each time, and it didn't break, that you were 100% protected.  HIV isn't easy to get.  Even many moderate to higher risk exposures don't result in infection.

As long as you continue to use condoms for any penetrative vaginal or anal sex, and never share IV drugs, you will never have an HIV concern.

Obviously, you're having trouble accepting that, which means anxiety has taken hold, and you're having trouble accepting the FACTS over the FEARS.  In that case, it's best to address the anxiety with a mental health professional.