Fear of STD from massage parlour

[zaza12]

Hey everyone, i visited a massage parlour which is something i have never done and do not intend to again. This happened 3 days ago. I got full service from an attendant who seemed to be of russian decent. I recieved brief unprotected sex and about a minute or so of oral sex. Im very worried about the risk of an STD as i know this was something very stupid and dont want to be penalized for it, but rather just learn a lesson. I asked her a few times if she was clean and she replied "if you are unsure you shouldnt do it" and she insisted shes clean. I know at massage parlours they need to get tested every so often and they wouldnt be working there if they have any serious STDS. Im sure theyre more scared of the customers then the customers are scared of them, but im just wondering how many other guys shes had unprotected sex with if she did it with me. I live in an area outside of Toronto, Ontario if that makes any difference.  

Its been 3 days and im going to see the doc tomorrow to get checked out, is that too soon? and how high do you guys think the risk is of a serious STD? Thanks

[Vance2335]

I can tell you that any unprotected encounter can result in STD transmission. I would suspect that those women must test a lot but our concenrs are the same, if unprotected with you, then with who else.
Testing guidelines:
1 week-Gonorrhea and Chlymida
6 weeks-syphilis
3 months-hiv
4 months-herpes

All will give you 100% conclusive results. And it is something I advise you to do.

[zaza12]

Thanks for the advice. Some people told me that if there is no signs of anything then there's nothing to worry about, but im going to get checked either way. Is that true though and do all STDs go away with the proper medical treatment if you catch them before they accumulate? Thanks

[Vance2335]

Not all STD's will show symptoms. So it's not always true if nothing shows then no worries.
All STD's are curable exept for HIV and Herpes. But both have medication to help out vastly with them.

[zaza12]

Thanks again. Im still a student and this whole situation is stressing me out, do you have any advice on how to take my mind off of this so i can focus. For more serious diseases such as HIV and syphilis.. is it almost certain you will contract it if your partner has them? Thanks

[auntiejessi]

Actually, no.  I would be very surprised if you, a hetero man, got HIV from a female.

Where are you?  Different countries have different syphilis rates, so if I know a general area, I can better assess your risk of that.  Overall, its low in most developed countries.

You are more likely to get gonorrhea or chlamydia than anything else.

Aj

[zaza12]

I just got back from the doctor and he gave me azithromycin and co-ciprofloxacin, total of 5 tablets all to be taken at once. This is just pre-cautionary because its been only 4 days since the incident occured and im showing any signs or symptoms of an STD. I'm located in an area just outside of Toronto, Canada. I know im being very paranoid but it indeed was a high risk situation and i dont intend on doing anything of that nature again. Thanks

[zaza12]

correction: not showing any signs*

[auntiejessi]

Syphilis is rare in Canada.

[zaza12]

Ok so chances are im pretty safe as is? Im definately going to go for a blood test and urine test for herpes and HIV in 3 months but most likely its nothing right? considering i took the medication before any symptoms were shown for ghonnerea and clahmydia?

[auntiejessi]

I'd say chances are low, but testing to know for sure is a good idea.

Aj

[zaza12]

Thanks for the help, im stressed about the situation and this and going to the doctor put my mind at ease a bit. I contacted the massage parlour and asked how often they test their girls and the girl i was talking to (who was a "masseuse" there) said that she didnt know. The place is full of people who dont speak english. I talked to the manager and i asked do they test once a month and hes like "ummmm yes yes yes". The whole operation seems shady, just wanted some input on that. Thanks

[auntiejessi]

I don't think you have a lot to worry about, but test so that your mind will be at ease.

[zaza12]

Alright thanks again. I visited the doctor this past monday and the incident happened on Friday, the 6th. He told me to come back early April to get tested. Is this enough time for conclusive results for HIV and whatever other disease?

[Vance2335]

HIv is 3 months and herpes is 4 months everything else is alot sooner then that.

[zaza12]

Ok great, i just have to stop thinking and reading about it and get on with normal life. Hopefully nothing is wrong. I just got out of the shower and noticed a very tiny red spot above my stomach on the right side. I also noticed what a tiny white bubble on the bottom part of my scrotum which looks kind of like a white head. Am I being completely paranoid?

[auntiejessi]

The bump on your stomach is not related, and I'd guess the other spot is nothing.  If it persists or starts to hurt, etc., get it checked.

Aj

[Jake180]

ZAZA12, I know what you must be feeling. I did the same exact thing as you did with the massage place and it was a pretty shady one (I gave and received unprotected oral, and had protected vaginal). I also did that with another prostitute. (Yea, that was the worst month of my life). I am never going to do any of those stupid things again. The fear alone is enough to last a lifetime. I just pray to god that I did not get anything from those encounters (especially HIV/AIDS and Herpes, since there is no cure for either). I went to the doctor today. First he told me I am an idiot and then immediately sent for me tests, which I am going to go get tomorrow.  It will take a few days to get the results. These past few weeks have been extremely difficult for me, and the following few days will probably be the longest ones of my life. I am really really nervous. I don't know if I will ever be able to live with this stuff. Honestly, I'm almost crying. Even if I test negative, I know I am going to want to get another test in a few months to make sure. Sorry for rambling on.
I wish you the best of luck. Let us know what happens.

[zaza12]

Jake180, have you had any symptoms of any sort of STD? How long ago did this happen? I think there is still a risk from unprotected oral but not as much unprotected vaginal

[zaza12]

I noticed today that it kind of had painful ejaculation and the burning sensation is persisting for about half an hour. Its only been a week and these symptoms are those of ghonorrea or chlamydia which i already took the pills for. Is this anything STD related?

[auntiejessi]

I'd doubt it since you took the meds.  If it persists, see your doctor.

Aj

[Jake180]

ZAZA12 Whats up. It was at the end of December when I did that stuff. The only thing that is bothering me is a pain I've been having in my lower stomach. The doctor said he thinks it is muscle related, and I must have strained something. I don't think he's right; I'm an athlete and I know what those things feel like. I told him my story though, and he didn't mention that it might be STD related. Otherwise I have had a scratchy throat for about a week a few weeks ago and have been a bit under the weather, but those things can obviously be unrelated, which is what I hope. I know some people don't have any symptoms, so I guess we'll see. God I'm scared. Jake180.

[zaza12]

Its actually funny that you mention that Jake because ive been have pain in my stomach as well and I am also an athlete. I dont mean to scare you but i didnt think it was STD related at all either. I also feel minor "pressing" in my kidney area, im not sure how to describe it. I have random muscle pains a lot though like in my chest on my left side, i asked my doctor about that and he said its nothing related to the heart. It seems that you'll get your tests back before me. Does anybody else have any input on stomach pains? It hasnt even been a week for me so is it possible for symptoms to show now?

[auntiejessi]

Stomach pains where?  Upper?  Side?  Lower?

[zaza12]

for me its lower pains. Very low stomach pains

[zaza12]

Pretty much the area where the top of your pants sit

[auntiejessi]

Unless you wear really low waisted pants, or wear the pants waaay down low, those pains wouldn't be from an std.  I'm thinking waist area, just a bit lower from what you describe.

However, it is something you should talk to your doctor about, along with the kidney feelings.

Aj

[zaza12]

Ive never had these feelings before and i looked it up just now, it said these are symptoms of hepatitis B, but im sure i got the vaccination for that. The exact location is right below the belly. It isnt a pain but rather just a weird discomfort.

[zaza12]

Ive also urinated like 5 times today as well. perhaps i just drank a lot of fluids im not quite sure

[auntiejessi]

Hep B pains would be up on the right side by your rib cage, where your liver is.  

I urinate at least 5 times a day, although I know men seem to urinate less.  5 times is not suggestive of an infection.

Aj

[Jake180]

The pain i am having is not really constant. its more like when I cough, sneeze, sit up, or use any muscles down there. How about you? You also said that you didn't think it was STD related at first. Did you find out that it was? Whats your story? Also, when do you think you are going to get your results back. I'm not going to get the test until Monday. Then it will take a few days to get the results. I try to keep the whole thing off my mind but I just can't take it anymore.

[zaza12]

Jake, the incident occured this past Friday (the 6th). At least it wasnt Friday the 13th like today! So it could still possibly be 5 weeks until i can get some tests done and then for HIV and Herpes 3 and 4 months. Im a student in public health and safety and a girl in my epidemiology class stated that for herpes you usually see signs within the first 4 or 5 days so i think we're both clear of that. Ive also been reading a few of these forums and people are saying commercial sex trade workers usually dont have any serious disease such as HIV or syphilis otherwise it doesnt make sense to be in the business. I somewhat agree with that but people can lie and bend the rules because they all live for the $. From what AuntieJessi has been telling us I doubt it will be anything very serious if either of us have something. Perhaps its just the fact that we're both very stressed about the situations and that can lead to negative health concerns as well; I almost passed out the other day thinking about the possibility of HIV and i have been having dreams about this ordeal as well. The tests will definately give us peace of mind. Do you agree AuntieJessi? Thanks for the support guys

[auntiejessi]

Syphilis is very uncommon in most developed countries, so I'd be surprised if you had that, and there is something like a 1 in 1000 chance of a man getting HIV from an infected woman.  Add in brief contact, and I'd be surprised if you had anything.

HIV isn't a risk for oral sex, either.

Aj

[zaza12]

Would we be considered brief? I think mine was anywhere between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Most likely not the latter... 30 seconds to a minute probably

[auntiejessi]

That's brief.

Aj

[Jake180]

What's up Zaza12, sorry it took so long to reply. Yea, you are probably right about the stress being a big part of this and it being unnecessary. I sure hope that's true. I hope the part about CSW's not having anything to serious is true as well. If they were clean though, why would they even offer anything unprotected? Don't they care about themselves?
I know I'm probably crazy, but every time I see or feel anything weird, that can maybe be mistaken for a sore in my mouth I go nuts. I'm scared. It just can't happen. And yes, I can't stop thinking about it either. I try to keep real busy with other things to keep my mind off of it in the meantime. Even if I get good results back from the test, I feel that I'm going to need about six months and another test with good results in order to feel complete closure. Is that completely ridiculous?
Honestly, I really don't know to much about this stuff so yes I listen to auntiejessi's opinion and trust it. I hope its right and I am thankful for it.
I didn't get to go for the tests on Thursday like I said I was going to. I plan on going on Monday. I am almost to scared to go get the tests. I can't face the facts. Can anyone help me with this? I guess it's crazy but it's true.
Thanks for all of the input.
Jake

[zaza12]

I never thought about that, if they didnt have anything then why would they offer unprotected because dont they care about themselves. Any input on that Auntie Jessi? I maybe assume that they can tell "good/clean" people because people with STDs often look sick and fatigued. The woman i had was an older russian woman, i assume in her 40's possibly... does that put her at higher risk to have something because of race and age? Before she gave me oral she asked me "arent you scared" and then continued before i could answer. But then she said shes clean and asked if i was clean and then she continued. My fear is now back...

[zaza12]

Jake what were the personalities of the attendants, did they seem like they may have had something. Im trying to recal all of the incident, and i remember her telling me that she works nights and she said come and visit her again... so why would she say something like that if she knowingly had something. She also told me "poor boy" before i exited the place because i asked her one last time, do you think she meant "poor boy i had something" or "poor boy stop worrying and if youre worrying you shouldnt come to places like this". She also did not want me to ejaculate in her mouth. The first time i asked her she said that she was a single mom and that why wouldnt have an std. Do you think this all concludes a possible low risk or that she's just very $ hungry. Thanks guys for the help

[auntiejessi]

Well, I have herpes, and I assure you I look like a good clean person.  I seriously look just like the girl next door.  You can't tell by looking.

I have no idea why they would have unprotected sex, but lets not start fixating on that, and remember that you had the choice to have protected sex.

All this second guessing will make you crazy.  

[zaza12]

Youre right this will resolve nothing at all. All it will do is add to grief. AuntieJessi are you a doctor? I thought you were this whole time for some reason. Not to say I do not value your opinion, i greatly do.

[auntiejessi]

No, I'm not a doctor.  I've worked in the STD field for a long time, though, as an educator, disease investigator, HIV testing/counseling, etc.

I just happen to have herpes, which I got 4 years ago, about 11 years after starting work in the field.  Health care workers and doctors get herpes, too.

Aj

[johnjohnson14]

being around my friends and family is the way that helped me deal with my anxiety that you may be dealing with . also the reassuring information from aj helped me a great deal. hope all is well

[Jake180]

ZAZA12, here is my story.
       The girls I dealt with were Asian and Brazilian. With regards to the Asian girls, they were both in their twenties and their English was very minimal, (almost nothing). I went to an apartment that they seem to work out of. There were a couple of rooms. The girl that answered the door took me to a bathroom to shower and then another room for the rest. They seemed to care about cleanliness in general, (I don't know if that means anything). They didn't really ask me anything, they just got right down to business, which consisted of uncovered oral and protected vaginal. I did not go all of the way with the second part.
       Then there was the Brazilian girl, who was probably in her mid twenties. I went to her apartment, which seemed like a pretty nice place, although I wouldn't say she was as kept up as the other girls. I mean to say I don't think she showered right beforehand whereas the other girls did, and stuff like that. Again, I don't know if that means anything. She told me she usually starts with unprotected oral and asked me if that was okay, however it seemed clear that she wasn't willing to have unprotected vaginal because when I first arrived she asked me if I had brought protection or I needed hers. They all told me to come again.
       I doubt that when she said "poor boy" she meant "poor boy, you've got something", she probably just meant "poor boy, you've got a lot of questions and are real nervous". That doesn't mean to say you shouldn't worry. With that I've got no idea, it's just that's probably what she meant. (Did she speak English, because that might make a difference in  what she meant)
       At this point, we should probably just pray that we're in the clear, take the tests because that is the responsible thing to do, and vow that we will never make such silly mistakes again. (If it sounds like I am trying to convince myself to relax, well then so be it, because that's the truth).

[Jake180]

Hi.
       In your previous post you said that you have herpes. I don't mean to be disrespectful, but I am just curious to know, can one start a family if they've got herpes? Be in a relationship? Where does that leave someone? Does it shorten the life expectancy?
       Thanks so much for your time and advice.
Jake.

[Jake180]

johnjohnson14,
       Being around friends and family has definitely helped me as well, and I haven't told anyone about it. Have you? Is your ordeal over? Are you still dealing with the anxiety?
Thanks for the advice. Everything helps.
Jake.

[johnjohnson14]

i did tell my grandparents which i live with so they can help me get tested BUT IT WASNT EASY AT ALL TO MENTION THAT TO THEM. i actually went out my way to find testing places by myself and went alot of times by myself but it takes courage and at the end of the day they came threw for me. i also have friends that if i told they would help me out. My ordeal may be starting all over again . it first started way back in june and ended in september but i engaged in uprotected oral with my long term ex girlfriend recently and slightly worried she couldve gave me something she dosent do oral on noone else but me. dosent sex anyone but me . but im not the only one she kissed.

[zaza12]

JohnJohnson I think youre safe in your current situation. What was the past experience... if you're comfortable about talking about it? AuntieJessi you said youve worked in the STD field for a long time. Have you ever encountered a situation like mine and Jakes and if so, what were the outcomes? Thanks

[zaza12]

Also, this morning and yesterday i had cloudy urine and i had a pretty bad headache all day yesterday. These are somewhat symptoms of a possible STD no? Do you guys think i should go to the doc now or wait 4 more weeks and i can get tested for syphilis as well. Im thinking if these symptoms continue to persist i will go at the end of the week (5-7 days)

[auntiejessi]

Zaza - you've mentioned kidney pain, if I'm not mistaken, and with the back pain and cloudy urine, you need to see a doctor.  It sounds like you might have a urinary tract or kidney infection, which has NOTHING to do with sex.

Jake - you had unprotected oral only, correct?  The risks for that are far lower than unprotected intercourse.  You'd be at risk for gonorrhea, syphilis, NGU and maybe genital herpes type 1.  That's it.  

I've seen lots of guys in your situations, and most are negative for anything.  Anxiety is the biggest issue, most times.

Yes, you can have herpes and have a family.  I'm female, so if I were to have a child, I'd take suppression during my last 6 weeks of pregnancy, and if there was any sign of an outbreak at the time of delivery, I'd have a c-section.  Its very rare for a baby to be born with herpes, and it seems to occur most in those who didn't know they had it.

If a male has herpes, he would probably take suppression while they are trying to get pregnant, if his female partner didn't have it, and either use condoms as well or avoid sex during the last trimester, when it is most dangerous for the mother to be infected.  

Herpes isn't as life-altering as most think - it hasn't changed my life in any way, really.  I just get a couple of sores every now and then.  No man has ever turned me down because of it, because the rates of transmission are far lower than most think.

Aj

[johnjohnson14]

my past experience was uprotected sex with a girl i knew had a reputation of having sex. shes my age been pregnat and all so you know i was extremly scared but it turned out my test came out negative at a 3 months and 2 weeks mark. aj really did help me thru my ordeal the same way she is with you and consistent in answering your questions.

[Jake180]

AJ - I had unprotected oral (gave briefly and received). Does giving cause oral herpes?
       I did not have unprotected vaginal, however there was touching of the genitals on the outside, (but no insertion). Does that pose any other risks?
The pain I've been having has been for about three weeks now. The Doc. thinks its muscle related. I think he's wrong. It is not constant. It's only when I use the areas down there, such as cough, sneeze, sit up. (I know it sounds muscle related). The pain is at the lowest part of my stomach, on the right and left sides, (not in the middle), right inside my hip, (I think that's what that bone is). I hope I'm being clear. It's kind of hard to describe. Any ideas?

ZAZA - If I were you I would probably start with a regular doctor. If it is something unrelated then it has obviously got to be taken care of. If it is something that might be related then the Doc. will prob. tell you to get tested since you are already showing symptoms. (Aj, is that correct?). And if the tests have good results then at least you will be at ease for the meantime about those symptoms. Not to say you shouldn't get tested again, but for that you will have to wait.

[Jake180]

The Doc. told me to go to a certain hospital to get the tests. It is going to cost me a few hundred dollars. Is that my only option?

[Jake180]

Thanks to everyone for the time and effort. Every response is really appreciated.
Jake.

[auntiejessi]

Jake - where do you live?  Many countries have std clinics that are free or low cost.  

It does sound muscle related.  STD pain would be more constant, and not just with muscle activity.

In theory, its possible to get herpes orally from giving oral sex, but its very rare that it happens.

Aj

[Jake180]

I live in Connecticut. Where does that leave me?
Also with regards to unprotected touching of genitals, however no insertion. Does that pose a risk?
Thanks, Jake.

[auntiejessi]

Its a smaller risk, but there is a risk.

http://www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.asp?a=3136&q=388472  list of free or low cost clinics in CT.  No reason to go to the hospital.

Here's another list, but call ahead and check before going - I know the list for my state has incorrect info.

Aj

[johnjohnson14]

jake i do not know if you found a lower price clinic from the links aj provided but i know a great place in the bronx . if thats your last resourt ct. and ny are very close.

[zaza12]

AuntieJessi how severe do you think these kidney pains need to be for me to get checked. Im thinking of just waiting until the 6 week mark so i can get tested for syphilis and the doc can assess my other concerns. Theyre very minor pains that last for 5-10 seconds and it doesnt hurt just a minor pressing feeling. Happens maybe 3-5 times a day. Thanks

[auntiejessi]

Zaza - ANY kidney pain is worth getting checked out, and you need to get it checked out promptly.  By 6 weeks, you could be very sick if this is a kidney infection.  This has nothing to do with sex, so there's no reason to not get it checked out now.  

Syphilis is uncommon, so I'd be surprised if you got that.  Its not worth putting off the kidney check just to wait for a syphilis test.  

Aj

[zaza12]

Alright great. It actually didnt happen again today and im not showing any STD symptoms i think the anxiety is giving me all the symptoms. Im slowly starting to stop worrying but i dont know if that's a good thing. Another question actually, how severe are the fatigue and cold/sore throat and headache symptoms for STDs. These seem to be the symptoms for many other things such as the common cold. Is there any way of determining between the two, like how severe would these symptoms be if it was due to an STD. Thanks

[zaza12]

Jake, did you go for your tests yet man? Let us know how it goes

[Jake180]

ZAZA12, I did not go for the tests yet mainly because I was trying to find another alternative than going to the hospital. Aj gave me a list which had somewhere near me so I am going to call the doctor today and ask him if I can go there. He gave me a list of a bunch of things that I have to get tested for (it was a checklist, kind of like a prescription), and I just want to make sure that I can get tested for all of those things at this clinic.
You're question about the fatigue issue is a good one. I have been wondering the same thing.
Jake.
P.S. I will definitely keep you updated when I take the tests.

[auntiejessi]

Jake -

You don't have to get your doctor's permission.  You can just go there.  

Zaza - I know you aren't feeling any symptoms today, but why don't you get checked out just in case?  You might have a cold or the flu, but after all this, why wouldn't you get checked?  If you don't have insurance, I can find a place for you to get tested for free or very low cost.

Aj

[Jake180]

The doctor told me they will be waiting for the results. Doesn't matter?

[auntiejessi]

You can bring him copies of the results. You can call him and tell him you are doing this, but he can't tell you that you have to spend $200 for testing if you don't have insurance.  It doesn't matter who does the tests as long as you do them.

When you go to the clinic, just let them know you'll need copies.  You will probably have to sign a release, but that's normal.

Aj

[Jake180]

I guess that's what I'll do. I have insurance, but I'm not the primary holder. My dad is and if it shows up as anything he'll know. I can't let that happen. It'll make him sad. I'd rather pay. Is there a way to use insurance and still have him not know?
The clinic only sees like 10 people a week. (I called them). A few on Tuesday, and a few on Thursday. It's first come first serve, so I'll see if I can get in.
Thanks again for your time. I don't know what I'd do otherwise.

[auntiejessi]

The doctor can't tell your dad what's going on, but the insurance company will send something called an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and that will explain if they didn't cover everything.  There's no way of stopping that.

Just go to the clinic and explain it to the doctor.  If you are negative, then you can tell your dad what's going on so that he won't be surprised if something comes in the mail.

Aj

[Jake180]

It is my understanding that the clinic will not send anything. (It is free there). If I go to the hospital and pay on my own, nothing will be sent as well. If I go through insurance, something may be sent. Is that correct?

[zaza12]

Ok question for me then, its only been about 10 days since exposure, is it to early for me to go get checked now? I dont think i have a fever, but ive had a lingering sickness for the past month where my throat has been hurting. Im in Canada so im covered and im going to go to my family doctor to get the tests, which is who i saw before.

[zaza12]

Sorry, also does anyone have any input about that fatigue symptom, sometimes feel tired but i always have before where like mid-day i just feel like crashing and my eyes get glazed over but that goes away. Also sore muscles and what not today but i dont think that can be related

[auntiejessi]

Jake - they might not send it, but you can get copies of the results and give them to your doctor on your own.  Same difference.

Zaza - Mid-day fatigue is most likely a blood sugar thing - the crash after lunch.  Try eating a snack at that time - something decent and not loaded with sugars - and see how it goes.  Your gonorrhea, chlamydia and NGU tests will be accurate at 10 days.

If your symptoms pre-date the exposure, I'd doubt its an std.

Aj

[zaza12]

Thanks AJ. I woke up with kind of a sore throat today so thats kind of worrying but it may just be the weather over here. Its snowing today and yesterday it was like plus 5 degrees C.

I also just relised something, i bite my nails and its a possibility that the finger i used to finger her may have had an open wound on it but nothing big. Then again I didnt really finger her, just minor rubbing and not deep insertion. Is this something else to worry about or am i just being silly. Thanks

[auntiejessi]

OK your anxiety is getting the best of you.  You don't have anything to worry about from that.

Aj

[Jake180]

I'm going to try to get the tests done today. I'm going to see if they can fit me in. I'm real nervous.

[auntiejessi]

Good luck and let us know!

[zaza12]

I was just thinking about this today, who are the people who get HIV and other serious infections. Is it people who are involved in high risk situations like ours over many years or is it geographical location as well. Are some people just unlucky and end up being that 1 out of 2000 people who get it from only once incident. Thanks

[Jake180]

I just got back from the tests. I was tested for HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis. They did not test for Herpes.
The HIV test came back negative, however the nurse said that she doesn't believe that represents the months of November and December which are the months I am worried about. She said I should come back in a few months. Any thoughts on that?
Also, what do you recommend I do with regards to Herpes? NGU?
I must wait two weeks to get the results back for the other tests. I'll keep you posted.
Man, my nerves are getting the best of me. Is that common?

[auntiejessi]

By 4 weeks, 90% of people will show positive on an HIV test.  That's not one I would worry about at all if I were you.  

I don't see any big need to test for herpes, but NGU is something maybe you can get done at the hospital or something if everything comes back negative.  

Zaza - I don't think you all did anything terribly high risk for HIV.  Yes, having unprotected sex with a CSW can be risky, but it was heterosexual sex.  Those at biggest risk are those who are men who have sex with men and injection drug uers.  You had brief unprotected sex - that's not likely at all to transmit HIV.

Aj

[zaza12]

I just talked to my doc and he told me some re-assuring things. In terms of HIV transmission, he says he has only dealt with one case, which was a 65 year old man from Jamaica who used to live down there and it has been 8 years already and he is still fine, everything going normally. He also said that he has never seen or really heard of HIV infections in younger people and he assured me that everything is ok and to stop thinking about it. He said that even with with CSW's, it is very low risk activity. High risk would be, like you said AJ, homosexual sex, needle sharing or sexual contact where both people have open wounds which can cause blood transfers. This is all very re-assuring and puts my mind at ease. Play the odds Jake, we're both ok!  

[auntiejessi]

Zaza - did you talk to him about the kidney pains?

Aj

[zaza12]

yeah its most likely a side effect of the pills that he gave me. Its not even really pain, its just a very minor pressing feeling and frequent urination is also a side effect. azithromycin and co-ciprofloxacin both have these 2 side effects

[auntiejessi]

Oh ok.  :)  Just checking.

Aj

[zaza12]

haha thanks for caring AJ =]. Im feeling a lot better today because everyones telling me odds are on my side and i was always one to take high risks with odds. I woke up today with a minor scratchy throat but i remember going to bed with a really dry throat and also a minor sore back but im sure thats attributed to the stress.

[auntiejessi]

Either its stress, or its dry air from heat, or you are getting a cold, or you have an allergy - its not HIV.

AJ

[zaza12]

Alright great. im having some minor burning sensations in my knees and my muscles are kind of sore, especially in my upper thigh area, is that probably the same thing, the stress/weather? thanks

[auntiejessi]

Yes, an std wouldn't cause those symptoms.

Aj

[zaza12]

Jake hows it going with the tests? I think my mind is pretty much at ease now just read over what my doc told me and i think it will help you out too. Im still having minor discomfort in my appendix area but that definately cant be an std

[zaza12]

Hey ive been having some testicular pains today, mostly my left testicle. and again that pain in my lower stomach area around my waist area. Do you think this is also a side effect from the pills or can and STD cause this type of discomfort? If they are side effects to the pills how long do you thing they should/would last. Thanks

[auntiejessi]

I have not heard of those being side effects from the pills, and I think you should call your doctor about it.

Aj

[Jake180]

I have to wait a couple of weeks to get the results back for those tests I took. I will hopefully get them on March 3rd.
I am still having those pains in my lower stomach. Can it be connected with any std? Can it possibly be a hernia?
Jake

[zaza12]

Jake, seeing as how we both have these stomach pains, its very likely that it is just a result of stress and anxiety. The chances of us both showing the same symptoms are pretty slim in my opinion. AJ, im sure the stomach pain is stress and that testicular pain only occured once or twice, possibly "blue balls"? Do you think I should consult my doc ASAP or wait a few days and see if it happens again because right now i feel fine.

[auntiejessi]

I think you have enough symptoms, Zaza, to call your doctor.  Some might be from the meds, and anxiety, but they are enough that you are posting about them here, and I think you need to call your doctor about them.

Pain that occurs once or twice is probably nothing, but you have had this lower ab pain for awhile now with no let up, right?  You have also mentioned pain in your kidneys - this is concerning me.  Did you have these pains before starting cipro?  Are you still talking them?  What dose are/were you on?

Aj

[Jake180]

Is the pain you have been experiencing constant? Is it only when you use certain muscles? Where is it located? Can you see anything that maybe shouldn't be that way? Can you compare it with any other pain you may have ever had or something similar?
Sorry so many questions, its just that I'm trying to see how similar the pain we are both having is.
I have been reading up on so many different things on what it could possibly be. I really hope it's nothing. I'm worried also about it maybe being a hernia. The way I understand it the pain I have is in the Inguinal area or region. Google "Inguinal" if you don't know what it is. I found it when researching Hernias. Let me know if you are having the same thing.
Jake.

[Jake180]

The pain is not constant. It is only when I use certain muscles. The ones in that specific area of my stomach (Inguinal). The pain has gotten a bit worse since it started, is pretty much static now, and does not seem to be getting any better.
Jake.

[brooksand]

you poor guys
you are both tormenting yourselfs
i thought i was bad as everytime i kiss a guy
have oral with a guy let a guy give me oral have mutual masterbation (masturbation) with a guy
i am in the same state as you
try not to worry and i do wish you both good luck and all the best
i do know what you are going through this has been happening for me since 1983
ps im a gay man
take care

[zaza12]

Hey i honestly think this pain is nothing. It really isnt pain its just really weird discomforts and i get these a LOT, like i have chest pains and stuff constantly, I think it may just be the way I sleep because I have a stiff neck every other week. I was at work today and the testicular pain just randomly happened for like a split second, this actually does happen to me a lot (blue balls?). AJ, Im really sure the lower ab pain is just indigestion or possibly muscle related. i only had that one dose of the meds, 5 pills all taken at once. I work with a guy who works in a hospital and he said side effects can last a few weeks depending on the person. We were doing some statistics because he had unprotected sex with his gf and he was worried about pregnancy. This occurs only 8% of the time even if the couple is trying to get pregnant so he isnt worried at all.

Jake, time to crunch some numbers. chances of getting HIV from an infected partner is 1 in 2000 (pretty low already). In Toronto last year there was only about 20 reported cases of HIV and this is most likely from drug/needle users and possibly homosexuals. 4 million people in Toronto. Chances of either of our masseuses having HIV is 20 in 4 million. Times that by 1 in 2000 and add in brief contact and our risk for HIV is literally 0.00000145%. I know this is still worrying because guys like us say, "oh sh!t what if we're the guys in that 0.00000145%". Play the odds, we have a better chance of god killing us. I know you live in Conneticuit but its not like we live in Jamaica or Bangladesh where risks are very high. People especially in the sex trade business focus on cleaniless (showers before and after each client). This isnt to say we may have a minor STD but in terms of serious ones i honestly think we're ok man. Perhaps these pains are just inflated by our mind and cause a bit more worries. Most likely these are just from stress and possibly because we're both athletic.

Brooksand, you said you are homosexual. Have you ever been with someone who is very high risk and in our type of situation. If so what was the outcome and realistically do we need to worry and have you had any symptoms like the ones me and Jake describe?

Also can anyone address the fatigue symptoms of how serious they should be? Ive been pretty tired lately but ive only been getting about 6-7 hours of sleep each night. Sometimes my eyes just feel really glazed over but i still function 100%. Again, ive always felt like this but this is really just the first time ive taken notice thoroughly.

Thanks everyone

[auntiejessi]

If you've always had the fatigue, check your diet.  You might also want to check with your doctor about doing a blood sugar test.

You say you think its digestive pains, but you keep mentioning them, and as long as you keep mentioning it, I am going to tell you I don't think that's what it is, and you need to see your doctor.  You aren't doing yourself any favors by NOT getting it checked and only focusing on stds.

Aj

[zaza12]

Yeah thats true AJ. Im having these testicle pains again. Are those symptoms of any specific STDs

[zaza12]

I actually just looked at they seem slightly swollen but i never noticed how big they were or are supposed to be. It may just be me as well but it looks like the base of my penis (opposite end from the tip) is beginning to turn white. Im going to go to sleep now and in the morning i will be able to see if it was all just in my head.

[auntiejessi]

Testicular pain can be caused by lots of things, and you really just need to see your doctor.

Aj

[brooksand]

boys boys boys
ive been a worrier all my life
and i worry so much about my health
but please please stop asking all these questions and discussing your symptoms with every body you are going to go mental and that will be a problem
your convincing yourself you have got everything if your not careful
if i were you i would try and stop putting posts on here and cast your mind to something else
the question you asked me you never ever know if your with a high risk guy gay men are usually highly sexed and lots of gay men are liars and they sleep around i am highly sexed but i pleasure myself i cant remember the last time i had sex i do not trust anyone
please take care and be careful

[zaza12]

Brooksand youre right i need to stop thinking about it, it can have some serious long term effects on me. AJ i have very on and off testicular pains today but they arent swollen or anything. I will definately tell my doc about this. Im coming down with a fever and cold it seems like. This kind of worries me because its happening within the 2-6 weeks described in HIV symptoms but im sure again it because of this on and off warm/cold weather.

[Jake180]

I understand what you are saying but in the end of the day I still want to make sure I haven't got anything, which is what I'm doing. I am fully functioning and am leading a very happy life. Every once in a while now I think about it but otherwise I don't let it get to me.
The only thing that really concerns me now, and I know it may very well have nothing to do with an STD is this seemingly muscle related pain I've been having for about a month now. I cannot figure out what it is, and no one seems to have any ideas. I've never had anything like it.

[zaza12]

Jake have you had any testicle pains as well before? i dont think this is STD related, might be side effects from pills. gonna go see doc

[auntiejessi]

Whoever posts next, can you make a new thread?  This is slow to load for some people.

But after 103 posts, we still aren't closer to a diagnosis, and its time for you to see your doctors and/or follow up about results.  If you are symptomatic, you need to let your doctors know that the meds aren't working, or you can't wait for 2 weeks on results.  

Aj

[brooksand]

boys
in 1993 i had my first hiv test and i must have had 15 since ever lump bump cough cold sickness and diahrea i thought o my god ive got it
the first time i had a test i had to wait 24 hours for the results and when i had the results which were negative i was worried that what if i hadnt left it long enough to have a test
what if they have put the wrong name on my blood
i was demented i had 4 hiv tests in 5 months and the consultant told me from day one i hadnt put myself at risk but in them days if you said hello to a gay man you had it
i really do understand both of your worries and concerns and i feel for you both so much  but you are both making your selfs ill with worry and you are bringing on the symptoms your selfs
how long is it until your 3 month window period is up so that you can have your final test
please take care
love brooksand

[zaza12]

for me its been only 3 weeks since the incident so another 2 months for me. AJ i will make a new thread when i post again. Im getting a flu and sore throat/cough and this is between the 2-4 weeks outlined in HIV symptoms so im kind of worried about that but again Ive had this lingering sickness and a few people are sick because winter is turning into spring here