i have type 1 and he has type 2

[iluvlost30]

I have type 1 herpes in the genetal area. i have recently met someone through a herpes dating site who has herpes type 2. I have had type 1 for about 15 years and have a very mild case. I have maybe had a handfull of visible outbreaks in the last 15 years (i have been very lucky!). Now i have met someone who has type 2 i am worried that i will get type 2 and will have regular painfull outbreaks. Am i at less risk of this as i have been exposed to the herpes virus already?

[gracefromHHP]

It's around 5% of folks I believe who have hsv1 and hsv2 both genitally.  We don't have a lot of info on it.  Most folks who have hsv1 genitally and later on contract hsv2 just tend to start having more recurrences.

If he's on daily suppressive therapyand you use condoms - your risk is only 2-3% each year of contracting hsv2 from him. That's certainly not a big chance!!!  that's only a little higher than your risk of becoming pregnant while on the bc pill each year.

grace

[iluvlost30]

Thanks guys for responding. um he does not take it daily but i have asked him to start taking it and he is fine with that. I understand that there is a big chance i will get type 2, i was just wondering if the fact that i have been exposed will reduce the amount and severity of outbreaks. if you have anything to add please let me know. Thanks!

[gracefromHHP]

speendmamma is correct - as far as we know - hsv1 genitally doesn't provide you with any significant protection against contracting hsv2 genitally.  You and your man should discuss what precautions you are most comfortable taking together.  Is he on daily suppressive therapy?

grace

[speedmamma]

Sorry but from what i have read you can still get type 2 in your vagina even if you have genital type 1.  The reason I have read is because it is a different strain.  If your b/f had genital type 1 and you have genital type 1 then you are both on the same playing field and can have fun and no worries.  But because you have a different strain I do believe he can pass it to you.  If you are still uncertain, there is a lovely lady on here by the name of Grace and she cann answer just about any question you may have.  She's the expert  take care!