Still Scared

[yobuck]

Hello Dr. Jose,

It's Yobuck again.  Even though all of your answered post are encouraging, why am I still worried I have HIV.  I have been feeling really good for the last 2 days with minimal anxiety until a few hours ago it just hit me again.

Just a couple of more questions and this will be it.  

1.  What is the average time frame antibodies will show up in your system?  I am hearing the norm being 4-6 weeks and anything longer then that is rare, please answer.  Like I said before, I had a Uni-Gold Rapid Test done that came back negative at 9 weeks of possible exposure, can this be final even though its conclusive at 12 weeks.  I really don't want to get another test if I don't have too.

2.  I know you're the expert and I trust your judgment.  Why is someone like the CDC saying there is a possible risk of receiving HIV through oral sex?  This is what has me concerned.

3. Do you really think it's necessary to get another test?  If you say no, that will be it and I will move on.

4.  Last question.  If a Uni-Gold Rapid Test came back negative after 6 weeks of possible exposure after having only oral sex, what are the chances of it being negative at 12 weeks?

If you looked at my tread, you'll see I had nothing but oral sex and only about 30 seconds of it was without a condom.  Sorry for being a pain, but I am still worried.  Your answers on this post will be final I promise.

Thanks for all your help.

[yobuck]

Thanks Dr. Jose and God Bless..

[Dr. Jose Gonzalez-Garcia, MD, MRCGP, PhD]

Hello once again and thank you for your post.
I will answer each of your questions here below:
1.) I would say 6-8 weeks to be sure, even they can certainly be detectable earlier than that.  Guidelines still recommend 12 weeks.  In your case, I beleive that your test is final and fully conclusive and you do not need to be re-tested.
2.) Organisations like the CDC tend to be very conservative in their risk estimation, and they are always very cautious with their advice.  However I can assure that there has been no case described of anyone becoming infected by receiving oral sex only.
3.) No, I don't think so.  It's time to forget it and move on.
4.) Zero. That's why you don't need another test.

Best wishes,
Dr José