###Human: I had protected sex. Am I safe from HIV? ###Assistant: Hi. Following are the answers to your query: Condoms are an excellent way to protect not only from HIV but also from other sexually transmitted infection (STI) and if you have used the condom correctly and it did not slip off or break, it is unlikely you contract HIV if your partner is HIV infected. It is always recommended to check the expiry date of it before using. Also at every time of sex, a newer condom should be used and water-based lubricants are always recommended with it. The risk of exposure is dependent on the length of time that had passed after the condom was initially put. No type of condom is 100 % effective against HIV or for any STI, but if you and your partner are having sex, nothing protects better against these than a properly used condom. Using a latex male condom can greatly reduce but not entirely eliminate the risk of HIV or any other STI. You increase your risk of contracting HIV and for that matter any other STI if you have multiple partners. It is really good that your HIV test is negative on 28th, 35th and 41st day post-exposure. But, as per the recommendations, I still suggest repeat HIV rapid test at three months and if negative, then at six months. You need not repeat in between.