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What are the chances of transmission of HIV after protected sex?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had protected sex with a masseuse. The condom looked fine, but the insecurity made me think the other way.

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The chances of transmission of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) by single-protected intercourse are almost nil if the condom is used correctly. However, there are other sexually transmitted diseases, such as herpes simplex virus, which can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or kissing or as sexually transmitted diseases. The chances are higher if there are active lesions at the time of contact.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I used a condom, but the sense of insecurity was making me anxious. What if the condom was leaking and all?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As I have said, the chances of transmission of HIV by single-protected intercourse are almost nil if the condom is used properly. You or your partner would have noticed if there was a condom tear or leak. If you have doubts about a condom tear or leak, and the act is within 72 hours of exposure, you can consult your doctor for further risk assessment and the need for post-exposure prophylaxis. There are other sexually transmitted diseases like herpes simplex viruses, which can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or kissing or as sexually transmitted diseases. The chances are higher if there are active lesions at the time of contact. You can now go for baseline human immunodeficiency virus antibodies test, herpes simplex virus 1, and two immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies tests. Once you get negative again after three months of exposure, you can relieve anxiety. You can consult your doctor for further risk assessment and management.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Is post-exposure prophylaxis safe to take? I mean, does it have side effects in the long term? I used to take blood pressure and cholesterol medicine in the past. I stopped because I lost weight and changed to a healthy lifestyle.

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I believe post-exposure prophylaxis may not be needed if the act is limited and the condom is used appropriately without tears or leaks. Any drug is likely to have side effects. Post-exposure prophylaxis has some tolerable side effects. As it is for 28 days, the side effects, if any, are for a shorter period, and all reverse back to normal after completion of post-exposure prophylaxis. If there is a risk of human immunodeficiency virus, then post-exposure prevention may be better than minor side effects. If the risk is almost nil post-exposure, prophylaxis may not be needed. However, you can discuss this with your doctor and decide on post-exposure prophylaxis.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I did the test today after 72hours. I got a report of herpes positive. I am taking post-exposure prophylaxis. What is the danger of HIV transmission with protected sex? Should I be worried more?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Herpes simplex virus 1 or 2 can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, kissing, or as a sexually transmitted disease. It is good if you have initiated post-exposure prophylaxis after a discussion with your doctor. The chances of HIV transmission were almost nil for protected intercourse. If initiated as early as possible, post-exposure prophylaxis would further reduce the chances of getting it to a great extent. In my opinion, the risk appears to be almost nil with the given details. You can relax now.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had herpes probably for some time now. Never felt anything in my body. Is it normal?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 or 2 can remain asymptomatic, and you would not have noticed them. Immunoglobulin M indicates a recent infection within a few days or reinfection. Immunoglobulin G indicates a past infection beyond a few days, weeks, or months. So are the reports suggesting it as herpes simplex virus one or herpes simplex virus two separately, or just mentioning it as HSV? Some reports detect it jointly and do not differentiate between herpes simplex virus 1 and 2. Anyway, treatment is similar. Moreover, if you do not have any lesions, there is nothing to worry about. No treatment would be required. However, you may observe any lesions from now on. You can repeat the test after three months.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At March 25, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 31, 2025

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