Hi Dr. Bob,

First off, Id like to extend my sincerest thanks for having a great resource like this with truly helpful information. Ive had a chance to read through the archives and noted that you often recommend an HIV test at 3 months post possible exposure to HIV. I had unprotected sex with a partner of unknown status about 5 weeks ago and am anxiously waiting to get HIV tested at the 3-month mark. I have gone through other extensive tests for possible STDs, all, which came up negative, so far. Once I test at 3-months and get my results, is that really it? Is more testing required? Three months seems like an eternity & six would seem like eternity squared. I want to do the right thing? Do you think I should really do a 3, 6, & 12-month test, just to be on the safe side? Once again, thank you for your time patience, and understanding.

Sincerely,

Impatient

Hello Impatient,

For routine potential HIV exposures I would consider a negative test at three months to be definitive. The option to test beyond three months is always open to you; however, I rarely find it warranted. Peruse the information in the archives of this forum. You should find it both enlightening and reassuring.

Good luck!

Dr. Bob