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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Exposure To A Used Tampon Cause HIV Transmission Through An Open Cuticle Wound?

Hi there, my dog picked up a used tampon on the ground while we are walking on the boardwalk by the beach. I didn’t know what she picked up at first and tried to get it out of her mount by pinching her cheeks.I had just recently it by finger cuticle on multiple fingers and it was bleeding hours prior. I’m not sure if I touched the tampon but if I did and my finger with the open wound cuticle touched it, could I have gotten HIV. What should I do?
Mon, 1 Apr 2024
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

HIV gets transmitted through an open wound, cut or tear that gets directly in contact with blood or bodily fluids (vaginal, rectal, seminal, etc.) of an HIV positive person with active infection with adequate virus concentration. You can get clinically examined by a GP to stay on the safer side. If required, you will have to get antibody / antigen test or nucleic acid test done.

You will be accordingly treated if the reports are positive. Your treating doctor can also recommend you post exposure prophylaxis therapy to prevent HIV transmission. This therapy is given within 72 hours of exposure to suspected HIV infection. You are advised to keep cuts or wounds covered with a band aid, never be careless with yourself.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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Can Exposure To A Used Tampon Cause HIV Transmission Through An Open Cuticle Wound?

Hello, HIV gets transmitted through an open wound, cut or tear that gets directly in contact with blood or bodily fluids (vaginal, rectal, seminal, etc.) of an HIV positive person with active infection with adequate virus concentration. You can get clinically examined by a GP to stay on the safer side. If required, you will have to get antibody / antigen test or nucleic acid test done. You will be accordingly treated if the reports are positive. Your treating doctor can also recommend you post exposure prophylaxis therapy to prevent HIV transmission. This therapy is given within 72 hours of exposure to suspected HIV infection. You are advised to keep cuts or wounds covered with a band aid, never be careless with yourself. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician