We really look at the cutoff for the most frequent shedding to be six months but the rate is probably also increased between 6 months and one year.
Virus is only shed from the penis, anus and perhaps the perineum. But prodromal symptoms anywhere could indicate that the virus is active on that nerve group, in general.
The best approach to reducing transmission to a female partner who tests negative for HSV 2 is to take daily antiviral medication and use condoms with every intercourse. EVen if you have prodromal symptoms, the condom will cut transmission from the most infectious area, the shaft of the penis.
Terri