QUESTION
I just had unprotected sex with someone. He ejaculated inside me. He says he is HIV negative and has no STDs. I can't be sure of how honest he is being, and now I am panicking. Should I go to the doctor tomorrow? What should I do in the meantime?

ANSWER
It would be a good idea to see your medical provider and get a complete STD checkup. As far as HIV, the antibodies do not show up on a test immediately - it can take up to three months after exposure for the typical HIV test to be accurate. San Francisco City Clinic, however, offers a new HIV test called the HIV RNA test that can detect HIV virus within 10 days. For more information on City Clinic services and hours, click here.

There is also a program called PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, that may be helpful to you within 72 hours of your possible exposure. It includes STD screening, counseling and a 28-day course of HIV medications believed to be effective in preventing an HIV negative person from becoming positive after exposure to HIV. When you see your medical provider, you can discuss whether or not this is a good option considering your circumstances. For more details on PEP, click here.

If you're in San Francisco, City Clinic offers testing, counseling and prescription for PEP medication within 72 hours of a possible exposure to HIV. You can call (415) 487-5538 to discuss your situation confidentially with a clinician before coming to the clinic for services. Clinic walk-in hours for PEP services are:
* Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm
* Tuesday 1:00pm - 5:00pm
* Thursday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

To your health,
Dr. K