Thread: HIV transmission confusion...

I'm a little concerned... I read that irregular periods can be caused by HIV, my period is late. I was in a sexual relationship about 3 1/2 months ago, I did not know his STI status. He rubbed the tip of his penis against my clitoris and vaginal opening a couple of times during our relationship, and once when we were playing with a vibrator, I accidentally pushed down on his penis instead of the vibrator! Do you think that there was a chance of transmission through these contacts?

The chances are very small, but for your peace of mind you can get tested.

I'm not a doctor, but I do have a major medical background.

First, go get tested, not because I think there's much chance that you have contracted HIV, but because you should be tested for many much, much, much more common STI's on a regular basis.
I've been married for years, and I still get tested every year, no matter what, no matter how much I trust my husband, I get tested.

Now, no, it's extremely, extremely, extremely unlikely that you have contracted HIV.
The virus is actually somewhat difficult to transmit, so the very slight exposure you had is very unlikely. On top of that, it's quite unlikely that he has HIV. I'm not saying you shouldn't take precautions or get tested regularly, just that it's really not something to lose sleep over at this point.

Okay, so technically, yes, HIV is related to irregular periods, but so are soooooooooooo many other things.
Even when studying gynecological issues, HIV was never on the diagnostic differential when the only symptom was irregular periods. It's like worrying that you have ebola because you have a fever. I don't mean to make light of your concerns, I just don't want you to needlessly worry about HIV when it's likely something else, or maybe even nothing.

In the end, practice safe sex, get tested regularly, and always, always, always ask about your partner's sexual history and when they were last tested. If you aren't comfortable enough to ask a man about his STI tests, then should you really be comfortable getting naked with him???

I repeat, I'm not saying that you shouldn't take unprotected sex seriously. You DEFINITELY should. I just don't think that irregular periods should have you stressed about HIV.

Now go get tested.

Thank you very much for your help. I have appointment to be tested on Monday, and I feel much more at ease about it! Thanks!

Originally Posted by BeautifulGirl01

Thank you very much for your help. I have appointment to be tested on Monday, and I feel much more at ease about it! Thanks!

That's awesome!