He had HSV-1, I don't....what's my risk?

[confused0040]

Hi I've been seeing a guy and we both got tested.  All my tests came back negative, but he tested postive for HSV-1.  He has never had an outbreak (coldsoars, lesions, etc) on either his mouth or genitals so we don't know if he has HSV-1 orally or genitally.  I like him a lot and I'm extremely confused.  What kind of risk am I putting myself in if I continue this relationship?  How likely am I to contract HSV-1 orally if he has it orally (through kissing, etc)?
Please help.

[Mistakeguy789]

You at least know he has it.  You could be have been not knowing and then been infected later if you are with someone else.  HSV-1 oral is really common and the other side to it is really it isn't that big of a deal.  Its a skin condtion.  

[confused0040]

thanks grace.  although i realize it's common it's still a little scary to think that I'm putting myself at risk when up to this point i've clearly been lucky enough not to get exposed.  I'm really struggling with that right now.  I really appreciate your response..it's super helpful

[gracefromHHP]

odds are this hsv1 is oral. most adults have hsv1 orally but most don't get obvious cold sores to know that they have it until tested.

http://www.ashastd.org/herpes/herpes_learn_oralherpes.cfm has terrific info on oral herpes for more reading.

statistically 1 out of every 2-3 people you've ever been with in a lifetime has had hsv1 whether they knew it or not. it's incredibly common!

grace