A
female
age
36-40,
anonymous
writes:Hello all,I'm really concerned about the chance that I might have HIV or Hepatitis and could use a little guidance. I realize that this isn't a replacement for medical advice, but I would like to know if anyone can share some advice with me. I'm really ashamed of what I've done, but grateful for the anonymity of the internet. It's probably nothing, but I'm concerned. I've never had sexual relations, but nearly a year ago, I kissed someone that I probably shouldn't have kissed. I didn't sleep with him (YUCK) but I kissed him for real (more than a peck on the cheek). I don't know if he's infected or not, but I feel nasty and dirty thinking about what I did. I barely knew this guy and didn't mean for this to happen. He pressured me to sleep with him in a roundabout sort of way, and when I didn't, he just dumped me. Now, not only is my self-esteem in the paper shredder but what's worse, I'm concerned about my health. I'm not uneducated, though. I've read about STDS, I've done some research, and I realize that the possibilities of contracting HIV through open mouth kissing are very remote... but here is my concern. I have given blood regularly several times, and I'm overdue for another appointment. If I'm completely healthy, then I feel guilty about not giving blood. On the other hand, I'm worried that I might inadvertently infect someone and even though the chance that I have an illness is remote, I feel guilty knowing there's a chance that my blood would make someone sick. I think: What if I have hepatitis? If there is even a remote chance that I have HIV, should I get tested?Each time I've given blood, they made me fill out a questionnaire which contains questions about sexual relations but not kissing. I'm aware that they test each donor's blood, but their tests aren't infallible.What should I do?Thanks.
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female
reader, anonymous, writes (28 January 2009): Thanks so much to everyone who wrote to me. I am really grateful for your help.Let me clarify one thing; I haven't given blood since this incident happened. What I'm concerned about is whether or not I should give blood in the future. If I'm healthy, I feel like I should, but I'm scared that I may not be.I'm definitely going to get tested, just to be on the safe side. I feel a bit better. The reason I feel ashamed is that I barely knew this guy, and I feel like I degraded myself, and after that night, he dumped me like garbage. I do feel better, though; you guys are very kind to write me back. Thanks!!
A
female
reader, Artistry +, writes (28 January 2009):
 Hi there, The first thing I would do is to stop worrying. The next thing would be to make a doctor's appointment to satisfy your mind about the hepititis. It is very remote that you would get Aida with one kiss, unless you were into very deep French kissing, and you had a partner with Aids and there was an open cut in you mouth or perhaps on your lips, where blood was transferred from person to person. The other thing is that Aids stays in incubation sometimes for 12 years before you know you have it, check that with a doctor to make sure I am giving you correct information, but that is what I heard years ago. One more thing that should be comforting is that the blood that you give is checked for diseases, and the blood bank must notify you, especially if you have HIV so that you can get treatment and not give anymore blood. The fact that you have not been notified is an indication to me that you do not have HIV, which is a forerunner of full blown Aids. So I would say that you are in the clear. Take care of yourself. Good luck.
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A
female
reader, TasteofIndia +, writes (27 January 2009):
 You should go get tested and put yourself at ease!! You are comfortable getting blood drawn, so you should be perfectly comfortable getting a blood test done at any doctors or Planned Parenthood. If you think you may be infected (you already know how unlikely that is if all you shared was a kiss, so I won't go there), you should absolutely be getting checked. HIV is not something to play around with, you should know ASAP if you are infected so that you can begin getting treatment.
If it turns out you, in fact ARE infected, you immediately go to the blood bank and let them know so that they can do something about the blood you donated. Remaining silent will do no good!
I wouldn't be too worried, but definitely go get that test done.
Good luck!
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A
female
reader, lovesalias +, writes (27 January 2009):
 It is very inlikely that you have contracted anything from simply kissing. I think the most commonly transmitted diesease from open mouth kissing is herpies. I think in order to ease your mind you should be checked for Hep. I am sure that you will find everything to be o.k. You don't need to feel ashamed or dirty for kissing someone. People come in and out of your life for reasons, seasons, and lessons. I am sure that you can find the purpose of this person in your life to be a lesson. I am glad that you respect yourself and you just have to remember that you are worthy and beautiful and deserve someone who will cherish you and treat you right. Keep your head up. I hope this helps! Good Luck!
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