Expert: Terry B - 4/10/2008

Question
Hi exactly one month a go I used a sex worker in Pakistan. I sucked on her nipples and had vaginal sex with her using a condom. I touched her genital area very briefly and touched my scroutum area. Only the tip of my penis entered her vagina. I also had a cut on the outside of my hand on my finger which had a scab on it which was dry. I also have a pain in my left underarm area. Do you think I am likely to catch HIV or any other std. thanks in advance.

Answer
Dear Malik:

Peace.  HIV is not easily transmitted, though contact with semen, blood, or vaginal secretions from an infected person does put you at some risk, especially if you have an open cut or another Sexually Transmitted Infection.   Attempting to diagnose HIV through symptoms alone is fruitless - only a lab test can determine your HIV status.  Other sexually transmitted diseases are more easily transmitted, but a discussion with your doctor or a visit to a testing center should provide you with the information you need to take charge of your health.  Please review other answers in this forum for varying degrees of risk related to healing cuts and broken skin, and/or stop by www.avert.org or www.thebody.com for broader information on HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections/Diseases.

Best to you and yours,

Terry