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Is eight days time enough to get through the window period after 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 an encounter about a month ago and that have put me at risk of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). I was out of town for vacation and visited a doctor who prescribed me Truvada and Tivicay as PEP (Post exposure prophylaxis). I finished the 28 days regimen yesterday and tomorrow I have to go for the fourth generation test that has HIV-1 and 2 RNA antibodies testing at the local Planned Parenthood. Eight days back, I got HIV and STD (Sexually Transmitted disease) tests done and they turned out to be negative. Does this time enough to get through the window period and see whether am I infected? And if not, how long should I wait after the PEP regimen to have the tests?
Answered by Dr. Atishay Bukharia

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Atishay Bukharia is a skilled specialist in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, sexually transmitted infections, and leprosy-related conditions. He is proficient in advanced dermatological procedures, clinical diagnosis, and patient-focused care. Dr. Bukharia is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatments to promote healthy skin and improve patients' overall dermatological well-being.

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Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.

Wait for another one more week. Antibody usually becomes positive after three to four weeks of exposure and one more thing repeat the test after two more weeks at different laboratories to rule out any kind of possibilities. As per guidelines, two tests from different laboratories at two weeks interval should be considered confirmatory.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 24, 2016
Reviewed At December 22, 2023

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Atishay Bukharia is a skilled specialist in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, sexually transmitted infections, and leprosy-related conditions. He is proficient in advanced dermatological procedures, clinical diagnosis, and patient-focused care. Dr. Bukharia is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatments to promote healthy skin and improve patients' overall dermatological well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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HIV Testing Window Period Awareness Builder

Concerned about HIV?

Five quick questions help you understand the HIV testing window period and when to seek further medical advice after potential exposure or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).

This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Dr. Atishay Bukharia
Dr. Atishay Bukharia

Dermatology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Atishay Bukharia is a skilled specialist in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, sexually transmitted infections, and leprosy-related conditions. He is proficient in advanced dermatological procedures, clinical diagnosis, and patient-focused care. Dr. Bukharia is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatments to promote healthy skin and improve patients' overall dermatological well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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