HIV Testing and Gonorrhea Follow-Up Care

HIV Testing Issues & Gonorrhea

Hello Dr.
Hong, I had unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse with an online acquaintance in April.
I experienced symptoms in late April and was diagnosed with gonorrhea.
After taking medication, I recovered by the end of April, and I also tested negative for HIV (with a signed consent form).
In early May and early June, my doctor asked me to return for urine tests, which showed no issues.
During my June follow-up, the doctor requested that I return at the end of July for another urine test and a second HIV test.
I would like to ask: 1.
The urine test at the end of July seems to be to confirm the gonorrhea, but is it necessary to have so many follow-ups after recovering from gonorrhea? This would be the third visit.
2.
Regarding the second HIV test, what happens if I don’t go? Will the hospital notify me to come in if I don’t show up? My main concern is that my sexual activities included unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse.
Although I know the risk of infection is low, I still feel anxious before the results come out, which makes me hesitate about whether I should go.
Thank you, Dr.
Hong.

Lo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/13

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, 1.
It is mainly to test for HIV, and the gonorrhea test is just to confirm if it has been completely treated.
2.
Due to the window period associated with HIV, it is recommended to re-test after the third month.
If the result is negative, it will provide more peace of mind.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/06/13

More Info

When it comes to understanding HIV testing and follow-up care after a gonorrhea diagnosis, it's important to address both the medical aspects and the emotional concerns that often accompany these situations.

1. Follow-Up for Gonorrhea: After being treated for gonorrhea, follow-up testing is typically recommended to ensure that the infection has been fully cleared. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that individuals who have been treated for gonorrhea should be retested about three months after treatment, especially if they have new or multiple sexual partners. This is to confirm that the infection has resolved and to check for any potential reinfection. In your case, since you have already had multiple follow-ups, it seems your healthcare provider is being diligent in ensuring your health. If you have no symptoms and your previous tests have been negative, it may not be strictly necessary to return for additional urine tests unless advised by your doctor.

2. HIV Testing: Regarding your upcoming HIV test, it is crucial to understand that the window period for HIV testing can vary depending on the type of test used. Most modern tests, including the combination tests (Ag/Ab tests), can detect HIV infection within 2 to 4 weeks after exposure, but the most reliable results are typically obtained after 3 months. If you choose not to go for your scheduled test, it is unlikely that the clinic will actively pursue you to come in, but it is essential to consider the implications of not knowing your status. The anxiety and uncertainty surrounding your HIV status can be significant, and knowing your status can help you make informed decisions about your health and sexual practices moving forward.

3. Emotional Considerations: It is completely normal to feel anxious about the possibility of HIV infection, especially after engaging in high-risk behaviors. The fear of the unknown can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that the likelihood of contracting HIV from oral sex is significantly lower than from anal or vaginal intercourse, especially if there are no visible sores or bleeding. However, the risk is not zero, and that is why testing is so important.

4. Next Steps: If you are feeling particularly anxious about your upcoming HIV test, consider discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide reassurance, answer any questions you may have, and help you understand the testing process better. Additionally, if you are experiencing significant anxiety or distress, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional who can help you cope with these feelings.

In summary, follow-up testing for gonorrhea is a standard practice to ensure the infection has been cleared, and attending your scheduled HIV test is crucial for your peace of mind and overall health. While the anxiety surrounding these tests is understandable, knowing your status is empowering and allows you to take control of your health.

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