Expert: Terry B - 1/31/2008

Question
Okay here is the situation.  I had sex with a prostitute about 2 weeks ago.  She gave me oral with condom and then when she finished, she took the condom off and put another condom on my erected penis.  We then had vaginal sex for a brief period no more than 4 minutes.  What are the chances I contracted HIV?  Is taking off a condom then putting a new one risky?  Do I need to get an HIV test?  I recently got a dry cough and I am scared that I may be infected with HIV and this could be an early symptom.  I made a big mistake and I don't want this to be the mistake of a life time.  I will never do this again!! Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Eric:

Peace.  Sex in exchange for money is always risky; it sounds as though you were as protected as possible for the situation.  

You didn't mention if you ejaculated during the oral sex (this would explain why she changed your condom) but in any case, putting on a new condom would not increase your risk.  Symptoms such as a dry cough are not indicative of HIV infection - only a blood test can determine your status.  

In studies done among serodiscordant couples (one infected with HIV, the other not) condom use for each and every sexual act prevented HIV transmission over a five year period.

I hope that helps; be tested if it helps your peace of mind.

Best to you and yours,

Terry