Fluey after unprotected sex

[unsureifGPornot]

I’m in a bit of a panic. I do have health anxiety. Stupidly had unprotected sex a fortnight ago, I let him finish inside me - middle of the night and I wasn’t thinking, just said sod it let’s just get on with it. Now realise how stupid that was. I do have a coil. He said he’s clear of infections but was a casual partner.

I’m feeling rotten - headache, sore joints, dizzy, fatigue, pelvic/shoulder and neck pain and a bit of blood in my wee. No discharge or anything.

I have got a v v long history of complex UTIs and bladder problems, have been admitted several times - most recently in July for three nights. I’m guessing that’s what this is but I’m not sure, I’m bloody sore all over and don’t know whether I should ring 111 or hope it’s gone by tomorrow.

probably Cystitis ,increase your fluids. Buy some sachets from the pharmacy.

Presumably you're thinking of HIV as there's a flu you get around two weeks after exposure to it which produces your symptoms. However the likelihood (with your history and if the man is a straight, non intravenous drug user or from hot spots in Africa) is that it's cystitis.

Get yourself to the GP ASAP tomorrow. Maybe do an HIV test after six weeks or whatever the time frame they say now, just in (minuscule) case.

Good luck!

Hi @unsureifGPornot, do you have a fever? Back pain? If so, it could be a kidney infection. With your history I'd ring 111 tonight.

Yes that’s what’s going through my mind, but yeah he’s straight white male and non drug using.

I’ll get an STI screen, yes.

Thank you x

Haven’t got a thermometer in the house but do feel a bit feverish yes.

Sounds like a kidney infection

@unsureifGPornot I've got a history of UTIs as well and was recently on IV gentamicin for one. Definitely get checked out, as they can make you feel so ill if they reach your kidneys.

Seeing a GP at some point tonight apparently. Trying not to wee now as doubtless they’ll want a sample!!

Glad you're seeing someone @unsureifGPornot. Make sure they send it off for culture, as the intial antibiotics they prescribe aren't always the right ones, because they don't know exactly what bug it is until the culture comes back. Let us know how you get on.

How are you doing OP?

Even in the highly unlikely event that it was HIV ,the treatment has moved on considerably

And I believe its a manageable condition these days with people who are HIV positive only having to take one tablet a day
And have a pretty much normal life span

I think you are much much more likely to die with it, instead of from it.

OP, it’s good to be proactive and get properly tested, but please don’t panic.