[Question #6259] Genital HSV 1
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69 months ago
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I was recently diagnosed with HSV1 genital herpes (lesion swabbed) after having oral sex with my monogamous partner of 1 year. He had a cold sore outbreak 2 days after sex. I had my initial outbreak 7 days after exposure. I have never had a cold sore and was celibate for 7 years (seriously not joking) prior to this relationship. I am 100% sure I contracted this from him. My MD prescribed valtex for suppression as I am in a relationship. This was before we knew the type. Questions I have.... Since he has HSV1 is he immune to getting this genitally? Do we need to use condoms? He has had a vasectomy so we have not since it became serious. Do I need suppressive therapy? Any concerns with him continuing to perform unprotected oral sex on me? Just trying to understand how things will change.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
69 months ago
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I don't think that Valtrex is necessary in your situation since you are both infected. If you have more outbreaks than you wish to have, you can do suppression. But over time you will shed less virus and have fewer recurrences. Once he has oral HSV 1, it is extremely unlikely that he would acquire this same virus in a new location. There is no concern about him giving you oral sex.
Terri
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69 months ago
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So, then it is not necessary to use condoms?
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
69 months ago
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I would say since you are both infected with the same type of HSV, condoms are probably NOT necessary. It would be highly unusual to become infected at a second site on the body with the same type of virus. Impossible? No. Extremely unlikely? Definitely
Terri
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