Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. I had unprotected oral sex with one who is infected with both HIV and syphilis, and I played both the giving and accepted part in the intercourse on 03/01/04. On 31/01, 20/02, and 26/03 I had rapid, elisa and test for syphilis, all were negative. I know that it may take 6 months for one to turn from HIV- to HIV+; however, I'm not well informed if the test in the 12th week rules out my possible infection with syphilis. Should I go for another test or receive treatment whether the syphilis test was - or not?(bcz I have read some posts saying that one "should" get treated if one has sex with a syphilis infector in the past three months.)
A syphilis test should become positive within one month of a possible exposure. While some might recommend a treatment prior to having a negative result, if you have the negative test already, this would seem unnecessary.
If you have negative tests for HIV and syphilis at two months, you are probably safe from both. Follow up HIV testing can give you near 100% assurance.
As you probably know, HIV infection is greatly facilitated by syphilis infection, so please, keep up to date on that. Syphilis is spread by oral sex, and is easier to catch than HIV. If you are sexually active, I recommend regular testing for STDs, to protect yourself and your partners.
Hope this helps!
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, John M. Lloyd Foundation, Roche and Trimeris, the National Library of Medicine, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2004. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2004. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.