HIV Transmission Risks in Non-Penetrative Sexual Activities - Urology

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When it comes to understanding the risks of HIV transmission, especially in the context of non-penetrative sexual activities, it is essential to consider several factors, including the nature of the activities, the presence of any open wounds, and the overall risk associated with bodily fluids.

In your scenario, you engaged in activities that involved manual stimulation and kissing, specifically licking the breasts of a sex worker. You mentioned that you had a fresh wound in your mouth from a recent dental procedure. This is a critical detail because open wounds can increase the risk of infection, including HIV, if exposed to infected bodily fluids.

HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with certain bodily fluids from an infected person, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The virus does not survive long outside the human body, and it is less likely to be transmitted through indirect contact. In your case, the risk of HIV transmission through licking the breasts, even with a fresh oral wound, is considered low but not zero. The presence of your saliva and the potential for any residual bodily fluids from the sex worker could theoretically pose a risk, but the likelihood is significantly lower compared to direct exposure through penetrative sex or sharing needles.

Regarding your question about whether you should consider post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), it is generally recommended for situations where there is a high risk of HIV exposure, particularly if there was direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Since your activities did not involve penetrative sex or direct contact with genital fluids, the risk is considerably reduced. However, given your concerns and the presence of an open wound, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your specific situation and determine whether PEP is appropriate for you.

In terms of testing, it is advisable to get tested for HIV after potential exposure. The standard recommendation is to test at baseline (immediately after exposure), again at 6 weeks, and finally at 3 months to confirm your status. This timeline is important because it allows for the detection of the virus during its window period, which is the time after infection when the virus is not yet detectable by standard tests.

In summary, while the risk of HIV transmission in your described scenario is low, it is not entirely absent, particularly due to the presence of an oral wound. Consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and considering testing and PEP based on their recommendations would be the best course of action. Additionally, practicing safer sex methods, including the use of condoms and regular testing, can help mitigate the risks associated with sexual activities.