I am getting ready to test at 12 weeks and want more than anything for this to be over. I've tested negative on doctor administered rapid tests at 4, 6, 7, 8 and 10.5 weeks. If I test negative at 12 weeks, am I done or do I need to retest at 6 months? I'm planning to get a rapid(Determine HIV 1/2) and an elisa done. My doc says the rapid is 3rd generation, not sure if that makes any difference. I've read that I'm done at 3 months, but I've also read that people still test out to 6 months. I think my immune system is normal. My risk was very low, if not non-existent by some doctors opinions, but the CDC still lists it as a risk on their site(French kissing with a sex worker, no intercourse, no drugs, just the French kissing and only that)... What do you think, can I let this go if I get a negative at 12 weeks? Should I hold out and do 13 weeks instead? I'm going certifiably nuts, would appreciate some advice...

Hello,

French kissing is not considered a significant risk for HIV transmission/acquisition. HIV testing is generally not recommended for such a negligible risk.

Regarding HIV testing in general, a negative 12-week test would be considered definitive for a low-risk situation. The newer generation antibody tests (3rd and 4th generation) do detect infection somewhat sooner than older assays. However, no matter what assay you use, a negative 12-week HIV-antibody test after French kissing would be considered conclusive. Your previous tests at 4, 6, 7, 8 and 10.5 weeks were unwarranted and highly excessive.

Dr. Bob