Crazy question about HIV

[glenngould]

I understand the stigma and possible ridicule from posing such a question, but I have been having bad anxiety sbout this. I was maturbating the other day, no contact with anyone else for many hours and I ejaculated on my hand in which I had an ingrown nail on. I am not HIV positive , that I know of. Have not engaged in any sexual acts with other people In a long time and have since been tested for hiv. Now comes to the crazy , obsessive and irrational question. If you have an hiv reservoir In  one of the areas associated with sperm production, could it be contained without spreading to an overall systemic hiv infection? Then when I ejaculated it contacted my ingrown nail , it could produce an hiv infection. I have OCD and hypochondriasis, and am pretty certain that this is the root of worry. I would just like to know if I am indeed crazy or is this a possibility?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Correct. EWH

[glenngould]

Thanks doctor. So one last follow up question . This is a correct analogy : if you hiv present in your semen, you cannot reinfect yourself as you would already have it ( Same strain as well) systemically. If you do not have hiv , then obviously you cannot infect yourself through exposure to your own secretions or fluids. Thanks again.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to the Forum.  The concern you describe is not borne out by what we know of HIV.  HIV is a systemic infection which is present throughout the body.  Thus, the scenario you describe is not realistic.  the events you describe should not lead to any fear of HIV or other STI.  Related to this there is not only no need for concern but no need for testing.  I hope my comments will relieve your concerns.  EWH