HSV1+ transmission to HSV2+

If I've tested positive for HSV2 but negative for HSV1, and my partner has tested positive for HSV1 but negative for HSV2, what are our risks of transmission to one another (during kissing, oral sex, intercourse)? We are both still in a great deal of shock since receiving our test results because neither of us have ever exhibited symptoms and were certain that we would both test negative for either antibody. And does having a positive result for one strain offer any protection from acquiring infection from the other strain (we each were likely infected more than 10 years ago)? Please help, any advice is greatly appreciated!

[auntiejessi]

What kind of testing did you all get, and why?

It is very unlikey that you would get hsv1 after having hsv2, but he could still get hsv2 from you.  Oral hsv2 is rare, so I wouldn't worry about oral sex.

Kissing is fine.

Hsv1 won't offer him protection against type 2, but it might make it a milder infection.

AJ

[shesconfused]

We both had Herpes Select testing...this is a new relationship, no sexual contact of any kind yet, not even kissing...he tested first as it has been a very long time since he's had a new partner and wanted to test prior to beginning a relationship with me...when he tested positive for HSV1, we decided to test me as well to know what our risks were as far as him transmitting HSV1 to me. Neither of us had ANY idea that we would test positive, because neither of us ever recall an outbreak of anykind (we are both in our forties). He is very upset to have tested for HSV1, I am absolutely shocked to have tested positive for HSV2, and we are feeling as if we should not risk transmitting what we have to one another. We would always use a condom for birth control, which I would think would protect against me transmitting HSV2 to him; but he is very worried about transmitting HSV1 to me through kissing or oral sex, even if he were to initiate suppressive therapy. This may or may not make a difference, but both of us are in exceptional physical health, with very strong immune systems, and do not suffer any health related issues whatsoever. Any additional advice here? Our physicians apparently have not provided either of much reassurance with this...Thanks again, any words are greatly appreciated.

[auntiejessi]

Oh how great that you all tested BEFORE sex.  :)

OK the chances of you getting hsv1 after having hsv2 are slim.  I wouldn't even worry about it, ok?  HSV2 seems to offer protection against getting hsv1.

Assuming you are female, here are the rates of transmission to a negative male, assuming a long term monogomous relationship over the course of one year -

*just avoiding sex during an outbreak - 4-5%
*adding daily suppression  OR condoms -  2%
*using condoms AND suppression - 1%

So flip that around, and you have a 96, 98 or 99% chance of NOT transmitting herpes, respectively.  Obviously, these are just odds, and your mileage may vary, but I can assure you that herpes is a hell of a lot easier to find than a good relationship.

Obviously, I would take what precautions you both are comfortable with, and avoid sex during an outbreak, but I personally wouldn't end a relationship over herpes.

And tell your man to not worry about hsv1.  There isn't any reason to be this upset over it.  He's probably had it for years and years, and finding out about it now shouldn't really affect his life.

I've had hsv2 for about 3 years now, and I can tell you it hasn't affected my life.  I'm 39, and dating still sucks lol.

AJ

[shesconfused]

Thank you very much for your information...it helps... : )

[waringblender]

Consider using daily antiviral therapy to protect him from getting HSV2. That plus condoms and he would probably never become infected.

[shesconfused]

Thanks...but is it really possible to test positive for HSV2 and NEVER recall having an outbreak? I have been discussing this with several of my friends, and again with my physician, and they are saying 'I would KNOW if I have it because I would remember my first outbreak' and 'I definitely will have subsequent outbreaks/symptoms, even if mild'. Without being graphic, I really think I would see any signs/blemishes/blisters as the skin in the area is clearly visible because it has been completely smooth for over a decade. So again, I've never had any indication of an outbreak, neither sensation wise nor visible...Any thoughts?

[waringblender]

You sound like you're still in denial. Yes, it's possible.

[auntiejessi]

Yes, its possible.  About 20% of people are truly asymptomatic.  About 60-70% have symptoms, but they don't recognize them as herpes because they aren't the big ugly sores everyone always thinks they are.

But test again if you need to.

Then you will have to put the denial to rest.

AJ