[Question #9259] Oral HSV2
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34 months ago
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I recently performed oral sex on a female. She has had HSV2 for sometime..at least 10 years or so. I did not notice any lesions. What are the chances of contracted HSV2 orally. We did not have intercourse..just oral sex. I scared to kiss my son I’ve read DR HHH has said he’s never encounter a genital to oral HSV2 transmission. Is that accurate? Thank you for your time
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
34 months ago
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I am so sorry! I missed this question.
Unfortunately, we don't have any data on the question that you asked. I also have never seen someone who has given oral sex to someone else acquire HSV 2 on their mouth only. I have seen people who acquire HSV 2 orally and genitally at the same time, so we do know it is possible. But by itself, I think transmission is highly unlikely. Do you know if she takes antiviral medication?
Terri
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34 months ago
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Hi Terri,
No worries...I'm not sure if she is on anti-viral therapy . I guess I can always ask..but she was willing to have intercourse without informing me either way. I just think its interesting that on a standard STD panel..HSV is not inlcluded. Sometimes I wonder if its the stigma people are more afraid than the virus itself? Anyways...I know i can minmize my risk but using a condom and/or just stick to oral sex which I'm willing to do for now.
Thank you for you response,
ADD
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34 months ago
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I actually just did think of one more question...Does the length of infection affect the virulence of HSV. Meaning is someone who has had the virus for 12 years or so less likely to spread the virus than someone who has had it for 2 years. (Assuming no current breakout) Thanks again for you time!
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
34 months ago
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The reason HSV is not included in an STD panel is that the testing that is routinely available is loaded with false positives and false negatives. There is a better test - the western blot - but it is only available from the university of Washington and is expensive. Not a great testing situation. And of course, stigma is a factor as well, for sure.
If you use a condom, the risk is reduced by 65%. if you stick to her giving you oral sex, that is not a realistic risk (it is unlikely that she has both oral and genital HSV 2).
Is this someone with whom you want a longer term relationship do you think?
Most people who have been infected for a long time have lower rates of viral shedding and frequency of recurrences. There is a decrease in shedding after having the virus for 6 months and a decrease after two years. There is, statistically, less risk after 12 years, yes.
Feel free to ask another question since I was late getting to your first question, if you have another one.
Terri
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