HSV1 and HSV2

[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. Since she likely has oral HSV 1 and I have genital HSV 2, is there safe sex we can have without condoms…..does this situation offer some protection?

For instance, can she perform oral sex on me without me wearing a condom since she has oral HSV1 and I have genital HSV2? I’m assuming I should still wear a condom during intercourse….correct?

Thanks,
Tom

[Terri Warren]

No, her having cold sores does not have any impact in her acquiring HSV 2 but it does mean that if she gets HSV 2, her outbreak could be mild or without symptoms.
HSV 2 is rarely oral. but if she did get HSV 2 orally, she would likely never get it genitally. For sure condoms with intercourse.

Terri

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