test after 12 years? PLEASE respond! - HIV Prevention Message Board

rhonva · 09-18-2003, 02:32 PM

I've been married & monogomous for just over 12 years now, and I trust that my husband is also completely monogomous. I've never been tested for HIV. Before meeting him, though, I had unprotected sex a few times and gave a few unprotected blow jobs.

Just this week, I was diagnosed with herpes (apparantly it can live in your body for a looong time undetected) and now I'm wondering if I should be tested for HIV as well. I do get sick more often than my husband, and this sudden herpes infection has left me feeling scared and vulnerable.

Is it possible I could have been HIV+ for 12 years and not know it? Should I test? On the one hand, testing will give me a final answer and peace of mind, but on the other, it will be one or two weeks of HELL waiting for the result.

I need advice!

maybe helpful · 09-18-2003, 04:44 PM

HIV can go without symptoms for between 10 and 17 years, (CDC website) but the median onset of symptoms is 10 years. having said that, I would say get tested for peace of mind. That way you know everythings fine. Two weeks of waiting isnt so bad, compare to all the time you might spend worrying, possibly needlesley.

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Good Luck and Be Safe