the Risks of HIV and STIs: What You Need to Know

Q: the Risks of HIV and STIs: What You Need to Know

Hello： Risk is comparative, and the decision to take medication is ultimately up to the individual. <br>Unprotected intercourse for 10 seconds certainly presents a lower risk than several minutes. <br>Risk assessment should categorize sexual behaviors based on their danger levels

I would like to inquire about the approximate risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Today, I went to the hospital for a blood test and consulted a doctor to examine my genitals.
There were no visible wounds.
I asked him about the risk of contracting HIV if I had unprotected vaginal intercourse for 10 seconds with a sex worker, even though they claimed that the workers undergo regular testing and receive the HPV vaccine.
I’m not very convinced.
The doctor told me that the risk is extremely low and advised me to be more cautious in the future.
However, I couldn't feel reassured because I read online and in various articles that this is considered high-risk behavior.
The statistics I found suggest that the probability is indeed lower than I imagined, around one in a thousand.
I also came across stories of individuals who contracted HIV on their first encounter, but they had unprotected sex throughout.
In my case, it was only for a few seconds, so the risk should be even lower.
I asked the doctor if I should take post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), but he did not provide a clear answer and said it was up to me to decide.
With less than two days left until the 72-hour window, what should I do? Should I wait for the blood test results in a week, or should I consult another doctor at a different hospital? I have also had two instances of protected sex and three or four instances of unprotected oral sex, all without any visible wounds.
Because of this, I have no idea if there was any possibility of prior infection, and it’s hard to gauge the timing.
If I did contract HIV, I would have to take medication for the rest of my life.
Should I try to convince myself that the risk is low, or should I prepare to discuss this matter with my family?

178804 de zuozhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/19

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Risk is comparative, and the decision to take medication is ultimately up to the individual.
Unprotected intercourse for 10 seconds certainly presents a lower risk than several minutes.
Risk assessment should categorize sexual behaviors based on their danger levels.
No-risk activities include masturbation, hugging, and touching areas other than the genitals; low-risk activities include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and sexual intercourse with condoms; medium-risk activities include deep kissing, oral sex, and withdrawal before ejaculation; while high-risk activities involve unprotected intercourse or intercourse that causes wounds or bleeding.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/02/19

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it's essential to have accurate information and a clear perspective on the situation. Based on your description, you had a brief unprotected vaginal intercourse with a sex worker, and you are understandably concerned about the potential for HIV transmission.

First, let's address the risk associated with your specific encounter. The risk of HIV transmission during unprotected vaginal intercourse is indeed higher than during oral sex, but it is important to note that the actual risk can vary significantly based on several factors, including the HIV status of your partner, the presence of any cuts or sores, and the viral load of the HIV-positive individual if they are indeed infected.
According to various studies, the estimated risk of acquiring HIV from a single act of unprotected vaginal intercourse with an HIV-positive partner is approximately 0.1% to 0.2% per act. This means that while there is a risk, it is relatively low, especially if the exposure was brief, as you mentioned (10 seconds). However, it is crucial to remember that any unprotected sexual encounter carries some level of risk, and the cumulative risk increases with multiple exposures over time.

Your physician's assessment that the risk is "very low" aligns with the statistical data available. However, your feelings of anxiety and concern are valid, especially given the stigma and fear surrounding HIV. It is also important to consider that while the risk may be low, it is not zero, and this uncertainty can be distressing.

Regarding post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), it is a treatment that can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection if taken within 72 hours of potential exposure. Since you mentioned that you are within this time frame, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider about the possibility of starting PEP. Even if the risk is low, PEP can provide peace of mind and is a proactive measure to take after potential exposure.

In terms of testing, it is recommended to get tested for HIV and other STIs after a potential exposure. The window period for HIV testing varies depending on the type of test used. For instance, antibody tests typically have a window period of about 3 months, while fourth-generation tests that detect both antibodies and p24 antigen can provide reliable results as early as 2-4 weeks after exposure. If you are feeling anxious, it may be beneficial to get tested sooner rather than later, as this can help alleviate some of your concerns.

Lastly, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you feel uncertain about the advice you received, seeking a second opinion can be a good idea. Additionally, discussing your concerns with trusted friends or family members can provide emotional support during this stressful time.

In summary, while the risk of HIV transmission from your encounter is low, it is not negligible. Consider starting PEP if you are within the 72-hour window, get tested for HIV and STIs, and maintain open communication with healthcare professionals. Remember that taking proactive steps can help you manage your health and peace of mind.

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