Sexually Transmitted Diseases

[Guest]

I have a question regarding STD testing. In partiular, as it pertains to HIV Generally, it has been said that it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to test positive after exposure. My question is this: If the woman with whom you are intimate has tested negative, is there still a possibility that she could infect you with HIV assuming that she may have been exposed to the virus within the last 3 to 6 months? I guess I am wondering how much confidence one should put in a negative test result.

[Guest]

Yes, you can catch it from one with a negative test for the reason you state. You are betting your life with unprotected intercourse -- you have to decide how comfortable you are with the risks. It is suggested that condoms be used until after both partners have been in a monogomous relationship with each other for at least 6 months and that both get a full STD screen at that time. Nothing is ever guaranteed, but this reduces the risks to acceptable errors. I mean, you can get killed in a car accident going to the doctor for the test, so we need to be cautious, but not overly so.
[quote] I have a question regarding STD testing. In partiular, as it pertains to HIV... [/quote]