Is there a need for PEP?

[Zulu10]

I've had unprotected vaginal sex with a sex worker (of sorts)

She would be in her mid 20's, from Estonia (which has one of the higher HIV prevalence rates). She works in a place that is not supposed to offer penetrative sex, but after visiting a few times I was able to persuade her. We had protected sex on three occasions, but on the fourth, condoms weren't used by mutual consent. I asked about her HIV status; she said she doesn't sleep around but hadn't tested recently.

Now, unfortunately this wasn't one of those "it was all over in thirty seconds" scenarios. We did it every which way but Sunday over a two hour period. There were no cuts, abrasions, or mensturation, and I am circumcised.

I'm now at the 48 hour mark. I have only another day (if that) to request PEP. I've decided at this point not to - the odds I know are very low, even if she is infected. I think presenting for PEP and taking it will send my anxiety way out of control, and also prolong the testing period.

In the meantime I'll stay PROTECTED and test at 6 weeks.

Is this plan reasonable?? Or should I run for PEP?

[malbat]

An exposure is an exposure, regardless of your partners sexual history. you've had a risk.

To be put on PEP is a major decision which a patient and the doctor takes after a face to face evaluation. PEP is given to people who have had an exposure to known HIV positive persons. in your case, i doubt the doctor will prescribe PEP. But im not a doctor, so i cant advise you. Whatever you decide, youve got a 72 hour window to be put on PEP, after which, you might as well not bother.

its good that youre testing at the 6th week mark. an ag/ab test at this time would be a very good indicator. Some doctors and experts would consider this conclusive. But as per CDC, only a 12th week result would be conclusive. taking a simple antibody test at this time would be conclusive.