[Question #13934] Risk of HSV-2 genital herpes transmission by %
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2 hours ago
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In periods of remission (from HSV-2 genital herpes) while using daily suppressive anti-viral medications and wearing a condom, how low is the risk of transmission in terms of percentage?
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
1 hours ago
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The studies on this topic vary quite a bit but here are some averages. Four things are known to reduce transmission to a sex partner.
1. Disclosure. Research show that this cuts transmission just about in half
2. Antiviral medication. This cuts transmission by 48%
3. Symptoms recognition. Avoid sex with symptoms or prodromal symptoms is always recommended
4. Condoms. A Scandinavian study found that if condoms are used with every intercourse and prior to any genital contact, they cut transmission by 96%, from men to women.
I hope this information is helpful for you. We also know that duration of the relationship is importnat in lowering the odds of transmission. People in new relationships are a bit more likely to transmit than those in longer relationships.
Terri Warren
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