Male ghsv1 to female oral transmission

[Lilhobbitfour]

Hi Dr Warren

A new partner has disclosed to me that he has genital hsv1. To my knowledge I do not have hsv1 or 2 (never had any symptoms) but this has never been confirmed with a test.

I wanted to ask:

1. What is the likelihood of him transmitting hsv1 to me if I were to perform unprotected oral sex?

2. And what is the likelihood of transmitting ghsv1 to me genitally if we have unprotected vaginal sex?

We are using protection currently but want to arm myself with information if we were to cease using protection at some point.

Many thanks
Lauren

[Terri Warren]

First, it might be helpful for you to obtain an IgG test for yourself. Have you ever in your life had a cold sore on your lip?
HSV 1 genital infection is rarely transmitted to a partner either through giving oral sex or through intercourse as HSV 1 has a much stronger site preference for the mouth. It’s not zero risks, but definitely low risk. How long has he been infected with HSV 1 genital herpes, do you know?

Terri

[Lilhobbitfour]

Thanks Dr Warren. I’m going to find out.

Do you have any information that would help me understand WHY ghsv1 doesn’t like to transmit to different areas? A friend mentioned that you had some info here, but I’ve been unable to find it.

Thanks (their comment below)

“HSV1 likes to go from mouth to genitals via oral sex, but doesn’t often go the other way. For more information on why, check out Terri Warren’s Q&A on the Westover Heights website. She goes into detail about this!”

[Terri Warren]

HSV 1 has a strong site preference for the oral area, vs. the genital area. When HSV 1 infects the genital area, which it certainly can do, it is rarely given off, without or without symptoms, after it lives there. HSV 2 has an even stronger site preference for the genital area, rarely infecting the mouth and when there, rarely is given off from there.

Terri

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