Can I Relax?

[bob855]

Dear All,

Thanks to all the contributors for your help that you provide.

My question is as follows:

58 days ago, I had receptive anal sex which was protected. However, when the other guy had finished, I noted the condom had slipped off. I saw that he ejaculated outside of me (at least some of it anyways) but I have no way of knowing whether it was all outside or not. He said he did not have HIV, but I only have his word to go on.

Anyways, because the condom slipped off I started PEP within a couple of hours and completed the course.

I have had negative antibody tests at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks and 8 weeks post exposure (4 week test was a blood test, 6 7 and 8 week tests were rapid tests).

Havent had any symptoms which could be considered ARS until now, which is a runny nose, sneezing and a mild headache. Although at 8 weeks post exposure and in the middle of winter, I am thinking this is more likely a garden variety cold.

I have an appointment at the 12 week mark to get a final blood test. However I do suffer from anxiety and its taken a lot of energy to make it this far.

So in a nutshell, can I take much solace from my 8 week test or is there a real chance the results could change between now and the 12 week test?

Any help you have would be appreciated.

Kind Regards,

Bob

[Helpful_Hand]

Nursegirl is 110% right. You should feel better about the whole situation. 8 weeks is extremely encouraging. Just be sure to go back for that 12 week test. Many people fail to realize that most people test pos by 6 weeks. But because some people may take up to 3 months, The cdc says 3 months. Anyways, best of luck man, I am confident your next test will be neg and so should you!

[nursegirl6572]

Your 8 week test is VERY HIGHLY UNLIKELY to change.  You need to test at 3 months after your LAST DOSE of nPEP for a conclusive result, not from the date of exposure.

I'm sure you'll be just fine.