hiv testing time period

[suzzieqtip]

I got tested for hiv 4 and 1/2 months after exposure. The reason i got tested is because my doctor suggested it, since I was having stubborn yeast infectons. The test came back negative but I still have consistent yeast. I wonder if the yeast infections mean my immune system is low. Was that a conclusive test result?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Absolutely.  You say little about whther you have pursued activities that put you are increased risk for HIV but even if you had, you can be sure that any result beyond three months is conclusive evidence that you do not have HIV. In fact, the tests are getting better and better and many would say that you can believe any tests beyond 6-8 weeks.

No matter how you slice it however, you can have confidence that you do not have HIV based on a 4.5 month test result.  EWH

[Edward W Hook, MD]

As I said before, you can be confident that you do not have HIV.  That you ahve recurrent yeast infections is not due to this.  You do not need further testing, really.  EWH

[suzzieqtip]

Lastly, the reason I ask isen't because I am afraid to test, but because it is hard to get an appointment for a rapid test.  I had yeast before I tested at 5 months and that is my only medical condition. I  would like to know if you were my physician, would rule hiv off with my 5 month test, and try to figure another cause for it.

Thank you

[suzzieqtip]

No other exposures. I just counted the months on my calenda and I tested at 5 months. Since I get many yeast infections, can I be one of the few percentage of people who needs to test at 6 months due to a decreased immune system? Or is the 5 month negative result sufficient? Thank you Dr. Hook.