Need Clarification, Still Have Questions

[iknewbetter884]

Dear Dr.'s

On October 3, 2011 I had unprotected sex with a man from my past. I asked about his status and he stated he is fine. At any rate, I decided to get tested for all STD's including HIV. On October 11, 2011 I was negative for all STD's including HIV, though I knew I was testing early for HIV. On January 5, 2012 I went to a local testing agency and completed the oraquick 20 minute HIV test, it was negative but they advised me to come back in 3 months (April) to retest. On January 12, 2012 I completed a blood test through my OB/GYN  and that was negative. I called the testing agency with questions and was then told I didn't need to come back in April. I am a little confused!! Since my last test I had swollen lymph nodes on the left side of my neck and diarrhea. I went to my PCP and he stated he was not concerned about the lymph nodes. He gave me a lab requisition for a CBC but I haven't gone. I have been very scared and worried and nervous about retesting. I spoke with another doctor and inquired about HIV and she stated after unprotected sex, one should test for a full year to make sure they are fine. Should I test again this month??

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to our Forum.  I'm please that you decided to get tested.  Getting tested after an unprotected exposure to a new partner is always a good idea.  One never knows and while most people do not have STDs (including HIV), regular testing is a good idea.  I'm likewise glad that your tests are negative.  It’s now time to believe them.   The tests for STDs, and particularly for HIV amongst the most accurate tests in all of medicine.  Your test results from January are definitive and you can be entirely confident that your October exposure did not lead to HIV.  The recommendations for further testing represent out of date things from overly conservative agencies and are not necessary.

I would believe your doctor regarding the lymph node swelling as well.  Most people have a few lymph nodes which do not cause any trouble and people tend to be unaware of most the time unless they specifically look for them.  Such lymph node enlargement is normal or, if abnormal, has many possible causes, most of which are self limited community acquired, non- STD viral infection.  

I hope my comment is helpful.  Believe the tests you have, they are definitive.  there is no need for further testing.  EWH

[Edward W Hook, MD]

I'm glad we could help. EWH

[iknewbetter884]

Thank you so much Doctor Hook

My life has been at a stand still since October. Thanks for your response. This website is very helpful.

Again,

Thank You!!