Can unprotected sex for a minute cause HIV?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had unprotected sex with an unknown woman for hardly a minute about a month ago. After about four days, I got a cold and a kind of sore throat, but not exactly a sore throat. I got tested for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) after 15 days, and it came back negative.

Now, for the past week, I have had a feeling of something stuck in my throat and a constant need to clear my throat. But I have not experienced any pain or difficulty in swallowing. I am extremely stressed, anxious, and in fear of HIV. I have not been able to do anything or concentrate on anything for the past month. In spite of all this, I have been travelling a lot for the past month. The only thing I can rely on is that after the act, she asked me whether I was clean.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The chance of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by a single unprotected intercourse with a HIV positive person is 1/200 to 1/1000. It is very low. She may be negative, so she might have asked it. Probably, the test done was an antibody test. It is considered conclusive after three months.

You can go for HIV-1 and 2 RNA PCR (polymerase chain reaction) at this stage to allay your anxiety. The symptoms are not specific and do not suggest HIV. It may be due to any simple respiratory infection. You can get it examined by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist to relieve your anxiety about a throat infection.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, the symptoms may be due to anxiety. So, relax and do yoga or meditation. Avoid hot spicy foods and carbonated drinks. Take chewable antacids or syrup. Take Ranitidine twice daily.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.