I’ll try and keep this succinct. I’m starting a new relationship with someone who has fortunately been forthcoming about her sexual health, and has informed me of her positive herpes status. Whether HSV 1 or 2 I’m not exactly sure (assuming 2, considering genital herpes), but she has been medicated ever since the initial diagnosis. I’m curious as to what the risk of transmission would be from standard heterosexual encounters, considering her medication and condom use on my part, and whether there’s anything additional I could do to protect myself

Thank you very much

Actually, HSV 1 and 2 in the genital area are very different diseases so it would be good to know which it is.  Let's assume for a moment that it is HSV 2.  With no interventions at all and no sex with outbreaks and intercourse about twice a week, the transmission rate per year is about 4% - that is about four men out of 100 will become infected.  Condoms reduce transmission from females to males by about 65% and antiviral medicine daily reduces transmission about 50%.  So using both you are quite safe, though nothing is 100%.  Also, interestingly, disclosure, as she has done, also reduces transmission as well.  Good for you for reaching out to get more information.  There is a free Herpes Handbook for you to read at westoverheights.com for starters on  information.

Terri