Is the HIV PCR RNA test at 11 days after sex reliable?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had protected sex with a hooker, and there was no exchange of body fluids. I was a little worried that the condom may not be 100% effective, so I ran a PCR RNA test after 11 days to check if I had contracted the virus. It returned as negative. Can I take the PCR result as a conclusive result and move on with a clear mind?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

PCR RNA (polymerase chain reaction) test cannot be a confirmatory test after 11 days of possible exposure, as it is a very short time to get positive results.

The minimum time duration for PCR RNA to show a confirmatory result is 30 days and may extend to 90 days.

Having said this, you can be at peace as you have used condoms and there was no exchange of body fluids. This protects you in more than 99% of cases, and we can hope that negative results are almost confirmatory.

For further information, consult a sexologist online.

I hope this information helps.

Thank you.

Is the HIV PCR RNA test at 11 days after sex reliable?

HIV PCR RNA Test: Understand Your Results.