i'm trying to be very strong. i feel so much better than i did a month or two ago. i can see light at the end of the tunnel, but i am having some negative thoughts. (pun may or may not apply). ok, i had a negative 3rd generation hiv 1/2 and pcr rna and antigen tests at roughly 12 weeks after possible exposure. all negative. i really don't think i could be so special to escape detection with all of those tests. but, like i said, i am second-guessing and need some reassurance i guess. i mean, i have seen that antigen and pcr tests are more meaningful within a few weeks of exposure, then your VL goes down. if neg on the pcr/antigen tests, would i have detectable antibodies yet? i feel like maybe i tested too late with the virus tests and possibly too early for the antibody test. is it possible or does it happen that people can be in a pickle of sorts in this scenario. like a few weeks between the two types of tests where nothing would be found? i try to come back on this site to sometimes help and encourage others, keep in touch with and up-to-date on what is happening to others in the same situation and sometimes i start wigging again. probably would even if i didn't come here because of the "symptoms" although they are not as severe as before,which is scary in a way too. thanks all!!!!!!!!

mynewusername,
I am not +, but my father is and has been for 14 years. I know you are in the scariest part of the whole situation and keeping your head on is tough right now. You are doing the right thing by being tested and I'm glad you hopped on the boards for some support. I could never imagine how scared you are, but just know there are people to help you through this, here and other places. You've got access to the internet...use it to your advantage!! The info is out there, start digging. You've got nothing to lose but your fear, sometimes knowledge is the best defense. Best of luck, hope you get the answers you're looking for. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

At 12 weeks with an RNA and a ELISA I don't think I would be worrying about HIV.

I understand your concern about testing to late for the RNA, but too early for the ELISA. It seems to me that such a testing plan would let you know that you are negative.

Get some help for your fears, keep it covered and get tested in another couple of weeks. 14 weeks has been the 'Gold Standard' in Canada for a while now, I have no idea why it took so long for us in the US to change to a test at 3 months.

Keep it covered,
Jimbo