Clarifying what genital HSV 1 is?

[portogal]

I have recently had a genital swab done for genital herpes, but the tests came back inconclusive stating that HSV 1 was only isolated. I do break out occasionally with these painful canker like sores in my genital area with symptoms of itching. burning upon urination and a white vaginal discharge which lasts for approximately 1.5 weeks. If I have HSV 1 in the genitals is it possible that I could have genital herpes? I have also had the HSV antibody blood test recently taken, but I have not been informed of any results yet.Will this blood test confirm whether I have HSV 1 & 2? Can my husband break out in any genital sores if I have genital HSV 1?

[Emma_08]

Genital herpes can be due to HSV-1.  Usually this is acquired if oral sex is performed when a cold sore is visible (most cases of HSV-1 are oral infections).  Genital HSV-1 outbreaks usally occur less frequently than HSV-2 outbreaks and are generally less severe.  It sounds like your culture showed up positive for HSV-1 (I'm kind of confused about the inconclusive..), but if there is any confusion about this test, you should get it redone next time you have an outbreak.  If your blood test comes up positive for HSV-1 and negative for HSV-2, you probably have an HSV-1 genital infection.  It is possible to transmit your HSV-1 infection, but not as likely as if you had HSV-2.  Since outbreaks are less frequent and asymptomatic viral shedding occurs less often, the transmission risk is low (but not zero).  Hope this helps.
Good luck,
Em