Expert: Terry B - 1/22/2009

Question
Hi, I'm worried that a few months ago I could have maybe contracted hiv from someone who gave me herpes that night. I'm female and we had intercourse with a condom but there was also genital rubbing before sex. I've read that having herpes can increase the chances of spreading hiv. I had negative tests done 2 and 3 months later but I'm still worried. If he had a small opening in his skin does this put me more at risk? I'll be tested again in 6 months but I'm still very worried. Thanks for any input.

Answer
Dear Holly:

Peace.  Indeed, herpes and/or other Sexually Transmitted Infections do increase the risk of HIV transmission.  The good news (sort of) is that Herpes is much easier to spread than HIV.  The rates of Herpes Simplex I and II infections are tens of times higher than those of HIV infections (see www.cdc.gov for stats); contracting Herpes doesn't mean you were at equivalent risk of HIV infection.  It does, however, mean you are at greater risk now than before, as Herpes disrupts the skin and mucous membranes and reduces your body's defense against pathogens especially during an outbreak.  

There are support groups for people living with Herpes (as well as for those living with HIV) and I recommend going to www.thebody.com or www.avert.org for more information.

Your "genital rubbing" doesn't place you at greater risk for HIV transmission except if blood, semen, or vaginal secretions from your partner are present.

Negative results at 2 and 3 months should be a pretty reliable reassurance that you're not HIV infected.  Please protect yourself and others - again, the support groups can give you specific information on how to best do so.

Best to you and yours,

Terry