We Slipped....

[peachy77]

OK...well, my relationship with my HIV pos man is wonderful, life couldn't be any better.  I do however have a problem.....As I have stated before, we always use protection, well, we slipped...We got caught up in the moment and did not use a condom.  He pulled out, but I am still a little afraid.  How soon after I think I have come into contact with HIV could I test positive.  I have been told that the earliest that I could test positive (if I were to be) would be at least 28 days, getting tested any sooner than that would be pointless, is this true??  

[Willy50]

Peachy, the answer will be different for different people as we all have slightly different immune systems.  What you have been told is in the ball park.  Here are a few links.  You can also find more information by "googleing" the topic.  I used "testing after HIV exposure".  There is a vast amount of information out there, but I think you'll find most of it to be very similar.

http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/pubs/faq/faq9.htm

"Most people will develop detectable antibodies within two to eight weeks (the average is 25 days). Ninety seven percent will develop antibodies in the first three months following the time of their infection. In very rare cases, it can take up to six months to develop antibodies to HIV."

http://www.aids.org/info/testing.html

"Statistics show that 96% (perhaps higher) of all infected individuals will test positive within 2 to 12 weeks. In some cases, this may take up to six months."

http://www.aids.org/factSheets/102-HIV-Testing.html

I think that I would add that peace of mind is worth something.  A back up test after a longer period of time may be worth doing.  For the time being...... try to be patient, losing sleep and worrying will avail you nothing.  

I hope this turns out well for you.  You have my hopes and prayers for a negative antibody test.  This episode may just become an effective reminder to always practice safe sex.

Best wishes,
Willy