What's my risk??!

Hi All,

Any ideas as to my risk of having contracted HIV? I had receptive anal sex with a transexual prostitute. It was protected, and brief. However, there was definite damage to my rectum wall (it was my first time). If we assume the prostitute was HIV+ (this was a street corner prostitute in South America), what are the chances of there having been HIV present on the prostitute's hand and/or lubrication (from herself or a previous, HIV+, client) which could have infected me? I know HIV doesn't survive long outside the body, but perhaps in lube it can survive longer?

Thanks all, I'm going out of my mind and can't stop thinking about this - I've got 3 months before I can get tested to find out either way.

[AnneS23]

Hi scaredtodeath,

All of our risk assessments in this forum are always given with the assumption that the other person is hiv positive. However, we cannot assume anything, and we always need to look at the facts. From what you're saying the intercourse was protected. As you might know it is close to impossible to acquire HIV if a condom is used properly. I can tell that this has gotten to your head, and that you feel a lot of guilt and anxiety. Just keep in mind that the chance of having contracted HIV from this brief intercourse is extremely low. I'm not just saying this to make you feel better, it's simply a fact. And no, there's no way HIV could be transmitted by another person touching the lubricant. Can't think of a single example where that happened.
You need to be taking deep and slow breaths when you tense up. It seems as if all you are listening to now are the scary thoughts that pop off in your mind.
I am confident that you'll be ok :-)

Anne

[Teak]

At no time were you ever at risk of contracting HIV.

[scaredtodeath76]

Dear Anne and Teak,

Thank you both so much for your reassurance. I really appreciate it that you've taken the time to read my concerns and reply. I've been extremely anxious, and have been developing ARS-like symptoms (2 weeks from the event) which I hope are just anxiety-related and/or psychosomatic - is this common?

Many thanks again