how likely is it to pass herpes 2 to a man?

[sillybear83]

i've had HV2 for about 6 months... and haven't really gotten into any relationship since. now i am getting to know someone. and i am going to tell him about my situation before we decide on what kind of relationship we are getting into, and before we have any sexual interactions. my question is... how likely is it for me (a women who is on antivirals) to pass on herpes to a uninfected man? with and without a condom?

also... any advice on how to tell him? i know to stay calm, and to be well informed, but anything else to help bring make it go smoothly?

[gracefromHHP]

the herpes handbook at www.westoverheights.com is a terrific and free resource that has info on the rates of transmission as well as suggestions as to how to talk about your herpes with a partner. I highly recommend giving it a read when you have a chance. It's also useful for forwarding to new partners too so that they too can educate themselves on herpes.

the risk of transmission to a male partner is 4%/year if all you do is avoid sex during any obvious ob's.  suppressive therapy and condoms reduce the risk even more.

Just be upfront and honest about your herpes. Be sure to also talk about other std's, condom use and birth control too.  remember that it's not all about what you know you have but also about his testing too.

grace