Unprotected Vaginal Sex Risk indication for PEP?

[stupidperson89]

Hi,

I've read quite a few of the posts here, and I think I understand my risks but I wanted to ask specifically about PEP in the context of my situation. Over the weekend I had unprotected vaginal sex with a woman (i'm a heterosexual male) of unknown status that I met at a bar, twice in one night for an average length of time, maybe ~30 minutes each. I have one question.

1. Considering I am still in the 72 hour window (barely), would PEP be indicated for me?

From my understanding, my risk, although non-negligible, is low, and PEP is probably not indicated. Thanks in advance for any responses.

[CurfewX]

The choice is yours alone; however, my opinion is that PEP is complete overkill in this situation.  Obviously, the odds are zero if she does not have HIV.  The risk from a one-time vaginal encounter is 0.04%, so extraordinarily low even IF she has HIV.  However, to determine the odds, you would calculate the statistical odds that she is HIV positive, multiplied by the odds of transmission, making the odds exceedingly low.

Also, PEP has side effects, and is generally reserved for those who had high-risk events.  You can't simply take it after every unprotected encounter.

[stupidperson89]

Thanks for your reply. I was leaning towards not taking PEP, considering potential side effects and the exceedingly low odds that you mentioned when you multiply the chance of the woman being HIV positive by the odds of transmission.

[mike_no]

I think you are doing thing. Risk is relatively lower. Also Female to Male transmission is relatively difficult. PEP would have dire consequences and can really get difficult to manage due to it's side effects. Get tested with a IV Gen HIV test at 4 weeks for a definitive result. In case you do not have access to the above test get tested at 6 weeks with any standard HIV antibody test.

Always insist on safe sex.  Use condoms correctly and consistently to avoid STIs. Good Luck.