QUESTION
I am a 38-year-old male who has recently had some bisexual experiences. A transsexual woman kissed and performed oral sex on me without a condom. My HIV risk is low to non-existent for performing and receiving oral sex, right? If I use a condom every single time for anal penetration, am I safe? I am petrified of getting HIV and I want to make sure I avoid it. I understand that I can get other STDs via oral sex if a condom is not used.

ANSWER
It is extremely rare—some say impossible—to contract HIV from receiving oral sex—there are no well-documented reported cases.

Using a condom during anal sex greatly reduces the risks of HIV transmission. Many couples—where one partner is positive and the other negative—have successfully not transmitted HIV through regular condom use. To avoid condom breakage, use plenty of lube. If a condom breaks, Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) [www.sfcityclinic.org/PEP] is an option that may be prevent someone who has been sexually exposed to HIV from becoming infected. You must be tested and prescribed the medication within 72 hours of an exposure to HIV.

To your health,
Dr. K