Risk

[youngman1529]

Hello, doctor.

I am a sex addict. I'm in counseling for the behavior and I have made significant progress: I was "clean," if you will, for three months. Recently I lost control of myself and met a man through Craigslist and sucked him off. He was *very* aggressive and finished in my throat. I asked him about HIV and he said that he was "clean" but didn't remember his last test date.

I am married. Is there any risk in having unprotected sex with my wife? I can tell her about this incident if I must, but... well, I am ashamed, and I'd rather not. Your advice is appreciated.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

No it does not concern me at all and is most likely a coincidence.  Most oral STDs are asymptomatic.  EWH

[youngman1529]

You are right, of course. I forgot to mention that I have a pretty severe sore throat accompanied by chills. Is this anything to be concerned about?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to the Forum.  Even if your partner had HIV, this was a no risk exposure.  There are no documented cases in which HIV has been transmitted by either giving or receiving oral sex.  Whether or not the partner is rough, ejaculates or swallows is irrelevant- still no risk.  There is no need for testing.

The fact that this was a no risk exposure however has no bearing on whether or not you tell your wife.  If you are being treated for addiction you should be aware of two important parts of the recovery process- first that relapses occur but can be overcome and second, that one must admit one's failing in order to successfully pursue recovery. Failing to tell your wife will not help your recovery.  EWH