UNPROTECTED VAGINAL SEX

 Hi there and thank you for using the AIDS Vancouver Helpline as your source for HIV/AIDS related information. 
 
Unprotected vaginal sex does pose a high risk of HIV transmission, so it is good to hear that you got tested. Using a condom is still the most effective way to protect against HIV and other STIs, because if the condom did not fail or break, then there is really no way for HIV to get through the latex or polyurethane of the condom. However, even if the condom did break, the risk is still substantially less than unprotected sex.
 
Most HIV specialists consider the Combo test (also known as DUO or 4th Generation) conclusive at 6 weeks, so since you tested negative at 11 weeks, your results at this time are very accurate and reliable. International testing guidelines do recommend testing at 12 weeks for completely conclusive results, so it might be a good idea to re-test once more, although I suspect your negative result will not change if you have not had any recent possible exposures.
 
I would try not to focus on the symptoms you are experiencing because HIV symptoms tend to mirror other viral infections, so testing is really the only way to know for sure. However, if your symptoms do persist, I would recommend you work with a medical professional so that they can be addressed. To read more about HIV related symptoms, please check out our FAQ at: http://www.aidsvancouver.org/faq under "Basics of HIV" and "What are the symptoms of HIV infection?"
 
I hope this answers your questions and please let us know if we can provide any more information.
 
Take care,
 
Stephanie
AIDS Vancouver Helpline Volunteer
604.696.4666, Monday-Friday 9am-4pm PST
helpline@aidsvancouver.org