I'm a girl who received oral sex

I recently received oral sex from a guy of unknown status. He had very chapped lips and he told me his gum tends to bleed when he brushes his teeth. Can I get HIV from him giving me oral sex and having these two problems?? Please help.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to our Forum. It is unlikely that your partner had HIV. Even if he did, the quoted figure for HIV risk, if one has oral sex with or from an infected partner is less than 1 in 10,000 and, in my estimation that is too high. Some experts state there is no risk at all from oral sex.  Neither of us on this site have ever seen or reading the medical literature of a convincing instance in which HIV was passed by oral sex.  This includes by all of the people who had gum disease, chapped lips, mouth sores, etc.  I would not worry at all about this exposure and really see no reason for testing other than for your peace of mind.  EWH

[sarita4]

Please Dr. Hook, or Dr. Handsfield can you reply? I really need your help.

[sarita4]

But there is still a small chance???

[Edward W Hook, MD]

There is always a small chance, just as there is a chance you will be struck by lightening while reading this.  I would not worry.  Your question makes that seem unlikely however, therefore I would suggest yo go and get a single test for HIV 8 weeks after your exposure, promising yourself that you will believe the results when avaialble (the results will be negative).  Then move forward.  EWH