Prevention of Transmission

I do not know if I have oral herpes or genital herpes, as I have not been tested. However, I have never had any outbreaks of either. I've read some of the articles on the site, but I am still confused about transmission. Let's say that I am herpes-free.

I like to perform oral sex. I know herpes can spread from kissing and from oral-to-genital contact. Should I avoid any contact that might give me oral herpes (such as kissing my infected niece) so that I can perform oral sex freely, without worrying I am giving herpes to my partner? I want to give pleasure, not herpes.

Bill

PS - How likely I am to acquire oral herpes by kissing infected people when they show no signs of outbreak? I'd like to kiss my niece, but I'm worried about contracting the virus (mainly for the reason above).

[gracefromHHP]

Assume nothing until tested.

Statistically 1 out of every 2-3 people you've kissed in a lifetime has hsv1 orally whether they knew it or not. It's THAT common.  Not many of us make it to the old folks home without hsv1 orally.

Don't hesitate to utilize barrier protection for both giving and receiving oral sex. It'll put the odds even more in your favor.

I also hope you aren't kissing your niece romantically which is the way as adults hsv1 orally is best transmitted. social pecks are not a high risk for transmission.  should she have an obvious cold sore - avoid kissing her near it ( kiss her on the other cheek farthest away from the cold sore ).

grace