Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.Dear Doc,
I am worried about the possibility of having been infected with HIV.
I was recently told by the woman I have been intimate with that she has HIV. Although, thankfully, we have not had sex of any kind - neither oral nor penetrative - nor shared any needles, we have done a lot of deep kissing i.e. deep in the mouth and a lot of tonguing. What concerns me about this is that I recently went to the dentist and, as a result of dental work, have a 'wound' in my gums between my teeth which is not completely healed. Moreover, my girlfriend had a sore on her chin for a while, which although seemingly healed, i.e. dry and with a scab, may potentially still have been wet or not completely healed. We kissed in the way described above while I had this small 'wound' in my mouth from the dental work and during the kissing I repeatedly licked her face, including the sore on her chin.
She informed me that she is on anti-viral drugs and that recent tests have shown that the viral levels in her blood are extremely low (although of course still in her system).
My question is: how great is the risk that I have contracted HIV through the activities described above? Should I ask her whether she has/had any wounds in her mouth during the period that we kissed?
Many thanks for your time and I anxiously await your answer.
Transmission of HIV in any kind of normal circumstance does not occur. A few years ago, a case was described, but both partners apparently were homeless, with really, really bad dental health, with missing teeth, and lots of open, oozing sores in each person's mouth.
The wound on the chin wouldn't seem to be a big risk, and your dental wound is small. The fact that she's on therapy for HIV also should minimize the risk.
As you did have a wound in your mouth, I can't say the risk of transmission is zero, although my guess is that transmission in this setting is extremely unlikely. For your own piece of mind, I strongly suggest that you be tested for HIV. You'll sleep better.
I'm glad you two had this discussion before having sexual relations. It says something about her responsibility and feelings for you. It's normal for you to have these questions, too. Bottom line is that safer sex practices work.
060512
ASKD060505
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 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, 2006. 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.