If I test negative for HIV at a year post-possible exposure, will I need another test

[Enormo the Clown]

to confirm? I had unprotected sex at least a year ago, and I went to get tested about two weeks ago. I did a rapid blood test and the doctor said I no longer had to worry because my results were negative.

But I'm one of those people who still continues to worry even after a negative result. I keep getting paranoid, thinking the test was a false-negative, or the doctor told me the wrong results and showed me a test device that wasn't mine. I guess while I was worrying over having it before getting tested, I just convinced myself I had the disease so much that it's kind of hard for me to believe I actually don't have it. I know some people would suggest a second test to put my mind at ease...but I don't NEED a second test, do I? This one should confirm it, right?

I would think if there was much of a chance of false results, the doctor would have me do a second test, but he didn't.

 

[Sho]

Ask your doctor, not yahoo.

 

[m_soulliere]

yes you would need anouther test up to seven years

 

[Caleb]

Get another test from the same doctor, or go get another test from a clinic/other doctor.

 

[Jenna]

No! You don't need another test! You are fine, it is negative! STOP STRESSING!!!

 

[Lordpercywooster XXV]

your head is going to explode
despite all the hype aids is relatively scarce in heterosexual non drug using communities

no you don't need it

however your obviously going nuts over this so do your self a favor and get another test done, what ever it costs has to be worth you not having to worry

 

[Rob L]

Percentage wise, you're probably in the clear, but of course there's still a chance. Just like there's a chance you'll slip in the shower and break your neck or get eaten by a shark in the ocean.

You had unprotected sex a year ago. Have you had protected sex since then? Maybe a condom was faulty recently.

Want to be absolutely sure? Have you had protected sex since the test? If yes, take the test again. Stay abstinent for six months. Take the test again.

You can be paranoid all your life, but that's no way to live. You just gotta do the best you can to protect yourself and most likely you'll live a long, healthy life.

Besides, nowadays with all the advances in HIV treatment, I'd rather be HIV positive than have some type of cancer.