HSV-1 and HSV-2 Infections

[chrome-lover.livejournal.com]

Hey, I have a question for you all. My boyfriend has HSV-1 (oral herpes) and I guess I have it too (my last cold sore was five years ago). My question is, how easy is it for him to transmit HSV-1 to me as genital herpes (HSV-2)? I know it's possible, but I'm wondering, if so many people have HSV-1 (~80%) then how come more people haven't accidentally transmitted genital herpes (20-25%)?

Thanks!

Comments

[marionravenwood.livejournal.com]

I'm not sure I understand the question.

HSV1 and HSV2 are two separate (yet very similar) viruses. HSV1 occurs more commonly on the mouth and HSV2 occurs more commonly on the genitals. However, you can get HSV1 on your genitals and HSV2 or your mouth. However, your boyfriend can't give you HSV2 unless he has it himself. He could theoretically give you HSV1 on your genitals if he gave you oral sex, but I'm not sure how likely that would be since if you have HSV1 you already have antibodies to it. But if you have HSV1 on your genitals you have HSV1 on your genitals, not HSV2.

[ends-and-means.livejournal.com]

i agree.

more than likely you'll be fine if neither of you has a breakout during contact. it can be transferred when there are no signs, but the chances are much less than if there is a sore.