GHSV2 and Oral HSV1

[Tom]

Hi Terri,
I tested positive for HSV2 in 2017 from a swab test on my penis and have been on Valtrex 500 mg suppression medication for several years now. I have not had an outbreak in over 5 years. When I have intercourse or receive oral sex from my current girlfriend, I always wear a condom to be extra safe in case I’m shedding while being asymptomatic.

She recently had blood test for HSV1 and HSV2. She told me the HSV1 came up positive and she said she has had fever sores on/ around her lips in the past. No test results indicating HSV2 and no symptoms for that. Since she likely has oral HSV 1 and I have genital HSV 2, is there safe sex we can have without condoms?

For instance, can she perform oral sex on me without me wearing a condom since she has oral HSV1 and I have genital HSV2? Is there a risk she could get HSV2 in, or around, her mouth from me, OR might I get HSV1 in my genital area from oral sex from her? I’m assuming I should still wear a condom during intercourse….correct?

Thanks,
Tom

[Terri Warren]

She can still acquire HSV 2 from you. It is unlikely with oral sex but she could still get it from you with intercourse without a condom. HSV 2 protects against the acquisition of HSV 1 but the reverse is not true. You seem to understand that. HSV two has a strong preference for the genital area so oral infection is quite unlikely, if she is interested in taking a small risk.

Terri

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