HIV Risks: Your Questions About Safe Sex Practices

Questions about HIV?

I recently had one-night stands with three women over the past month and a half.
The first was my first sexual encounter in a year, as my previous sexual partner was only my boyfriend.
The second woman, aside from my ex-boyfriend, had one-night stands with six people, including me, but we always used condoms.
The third woman had one-night stands with three people, including me, and none of them smoke or use drugs.
During the encounters, I only used a condom with the first woman after initially having intercourse without one; the other two encounters were fully protected.
I did not perform oral sex on them, but I did kiss the second and third women.

The encounter with the second woman took place in a hot tub.
Can viruses be transmitted through hot tub water? I had no cuts in my mouth at the time, and there was no penetration, only manual stimulation.
Later, we had intercourse outside, and I used a condom.

After looking up the symptoms of AIDS, I am worried about whether I might have contracted it.
Is it true that only contact with bodily fluids increases the risk? If so, does that mean condoms are ineffective? Regarding the first woman, since I had unprotected intercourse initially but used a condom later, and I ejaculated inside the condom, is that considered safe? (Before this, I had washed my genital area in the restroom.)
Given this situation, do you think the risk is significant? I plan to avoid one-night stands in the future and hope I haven't contracted anything.
Lately, I've been experiencing fever, a dry throat, and white patches on my tongue, which is making me very anxious.

A worried 23-year-old man, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/26

Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine

Hello! Although you used condoms with your multiple partners, the risk of infection is likely low.
However, given your one-night stands and multiple partners, it's safest to get tested.
I recommend you get a blood test within 2 to 6 weeks, and then follow up at 3 months and 6 months.
Best wishes for your health from Dr.
Cheng Shu-Hsing, Infectious Disease Department, Taoyuan City Health Bureau.

Reply Date: 2002/11/26

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of HIV transmission during sexual encounters, it's essential to consider various factors, including the type of sexual activity, the use of protection, and the health status of both partners. Based on your description, let's break down the concerns and clarify some misconceptions about HIV transmission.

Firstly, using condoms consistently and correctly is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual intercourse. In your case, you mentioned that you used condoms during most of your encounters, which significantly lowers the risk of HIV transmission. However, it's important to note that no method is 100% effective, and there are still some risks involved, especially if the condom is not used throughout the entire sexual act or if it is not used correctly.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Risk of HIV Transmission in Bathing Situations: HIV is not transmitted through water, including bathwater or swimming pools. The virus does not survive long outside the human body, and it cannot be transmitted through water. Therefore, you do not need to worry about contracting HIV from being in a bath with someone else.

2. Contact with Body Fluids: While it is true that HIV can be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids (such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk), the risk varies depending on the type of sexual activity. For example, anal and vaginal intercourse without a condom carries a higher risk compared to oral sex. Since you mentioned that you did not engage in oral sex and used condoms during most of your encounters, your risk of transmission is lower.

3. Concerns about Symptoms: The symptoms you described, such as fever, dry throat, and white patches on your tongue, can be associated with various conditions, not just HIV. These symptoms can result from infections, allergies, or even stress. If you are concerned about your health, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and testing.

4. Safety of Partial Condom Use: In your first encounter, where you initially had unprotected sex and then used a condom later, there is a risk associated with the initial exposure. However, if you did not ejaculate outside the condom and used it afterward, the risk is mitigated, but not eliminated. It is always best to use a condom from the beginning of any sexual activity to ensure maximum protection.

5. Future Precautions: Given your experiences and concerns, it is wise to reconsider engaging in one-night stands or any sexual activity that may put you at risk. Establishing a monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested for STIs, including HIV, can significantly reduce your risk.

6. Testing and Follow-Up: If you are feeling anxious about potential exposure to HIV, it is recommended to get tested. The window period for HIV testing can vary, but it is generally advised to wait at least 2-4 weeks for an initial test, with a follow-up test at three months for conclusive results. Many clinics offer anonymous testing, which can help alleviate some of the stress associated with the process.

In conclusion, while your risk of HIV transmission appears to be low based on the precautions you took, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed. Regular testing, open communication with partners about sexual health, and consistent use of protection are key components in reducing the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. If you have ongoing concerns or symptoms, please seek medical advice promptly.

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