[Question #12611] Herpes Transmission risk.

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6 months ago
Hi,
I was diagnosed with genetial Herps about 8 years ago.  I have never had another outbreak and have been routinely tested, always negative .  My female partner and I have had unprotected sex since that time without issue.  However, I (regretably) recently had unprotected sex with another female partner, no ejaculation if that matters.  I got tested right away and my blood test was negative.  The one wrinkle is that afternoon prior to the encounter I slightly nicked myself at the base of my penis trimming  a pubic hair.  It was a very minor nick.  

My question is what is her risk for exposure?

Thank you.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
6 months ago
Tell me exactly how you were diagnosed and with which type. Swab, blood test, visual exam only?  HSV 1 or HSV 2?  What tests have you had done that are negative?   Blood, IgG, IgM, swab?  With that information I can help you more.
Terri
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6 months ago
Thank you for responding Terri. 

I was diagnosed with a swab test about 8 years ago.  Unfortunately, I do not recall which type but it was on my genitals (I was given the results over the phone and I just don’t recall). In the interim, I have never had an outbreak and have taken blood tests (IgG I believe) and they have always been negative.  After the encounter I took another blood test (IgG) which was again negative.  

I am sorry I don’t have more detailed information for you.  
Thank you.  
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
6 months ago
Were you tested for both HSV 1 and HSV 2?  The IgG test for HSV 1 misses 30% of HSV 1 infections compared to the western blot, so it could be there.  And HSV 1 genitally rarely recurs.

Terri
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6 months ago
Thanks again for responding. I really wish I had gotten more information 8 years ago, that was an error on my part!  

I have been routinely tested for both, types always negative (subject to the limitations you note).

  I am hoping that based on these factors noted in this thread and based on a sole encounter, that her risk for transmission from me is low.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
6 months ago
I think the risk is very low. 
But that's not the only point here.  It sounds to me like you need to know if you have HSV or not and if yes, what kind.  
The best test is the herpes western blot.  You can work with your own provider to obtain this test or I can help you if you decide you want it.You can read more about this at westoverheights.com

Terri Warren
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