1. Yes, it could pick up HSV in the urethra if the virus was near the end of the urethra where it was "reachable"
2. yes, it could
3. No, I would say they are not, but they are also not normal. I think a urology consult would be appropriate for you, given these unusual symptoms.
Terri
Thanks for the reply Terri.
I just had a couple of follow up questions:
1. Would a urethral swab catch HSV1 or HSV2 in the urethra?
2. Could herpetic urethritis manifest without any visible symptoms such as at the tip of the penis?
3. I have noticed that my ejaculate has changed colours to a yellowing tinge and has jello-like chunks. In addition there is extreme dryness on the tip of the penis after ejaculating and a burning sensation that lasts for several hours after. Are these indicative of herpes?
I really appreciate your answers.
I've posted my response to your post twice now, not sure where it is going!
1. They could be, but I think that is far less likely than likely.
2. Both men and women can get outbreaks of herpes in the urethra (herpetic urethritis) but I'm not clear that you symptoms make that likely, no. All the twitching just doesn't sound herpetic to me.
3. It is possible to contract HSV 1 through receiving oral sex, far less likely for HSV 2. Have you ever had a cold sore on your lip or nose? If yes, then it would be really unlikely that you would contract HSV 1 genitally as well, since you already have an immune response in place to that virus.
4. You can get tested at 16 weeks past exposure, and you need an IgG type specific antibody test, no IgM tests should be done.
Terri
Sorry. These are my questions:
1. Are the neuropathy type symptoms possibly herpes-related despite no visible outbreaks?
2. Could herpes breakouts be confined specifically to the urethra? Are my symptoms indicative of this?
3. What are the chances of contracting herpes through oral sex? HSV1 or HSV2 more likely?
4. When and how should I get tested for herpes?