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Oral sex and cold sores
Sometimes my wife gets cold sores. Either up by her nose or on the edge of her mouth near her lips. It's happened since before I've known her over 10 years ago. This happens maybe once or twice a year. I have never had a cold sore. During or around the time of a cold sore we don't participate in oral sex or kissing at all in fear of passing something to myself. Are we being crazy? What are the chances of passing something from her mouth to my penis because of a normal cold sore? Is it possible to pass something when a cold sore is not visible?
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Good question! Most people don’t understand that there are two types of Herpes: HSV-I (“cold sores”) and HSV-II, which usually occur around your crotch or that general area. And, yes, cold sores, the oral herpes virus, can be transmitted from mouth/face to any other part of the body. They are extremely contagious, so using latex barriers (like condoms) even when sores are inactive, is advised, just because while the virus is less likely to be contagious, it still may be transmitted.
Latex barriers and condoms don't work as well with a virus like herpes as they do with STIs transmitted through fluids, but they still drastically reduce the chance of transmission. Because oral herpes can be transmitted from her mouth to your crotch, you also want to make sure that your wife doesn't touch her face and then touch your crotch. Of course, this doesn't mean you can have hot, wonderful sex. In fact, I insist on it! Dr. J
Latex barriers and condoms don't work as well with a virus like herpes as they do with STIs transmitted through fluids, but they still drastically reduce the chance of transmission. Because oral herpes can be transmitted from her mouth to your crotch, you also want to make sure that your wife doesn't touch her face and then touch your crotch. Of course, this doesn't mean you can have hot, wonderful sex. In fact, I insist on it! Dr. J
Thats a good question, I am waiting on a reply on this one I wish I could tell you myself. But with my experience i've never actually dated or came in intimate contact with someone with a cold sore because if I saw them with it, being that I am freaked out by std's and would find myself asking the same question you are I would look the other direction as far as any sexual desires so I don't think you are crazy to be concerned at all. But sex talk with Sue Johanson comes on the oxygen channel every sunday at midnight/11C live and you can call and ask questions and she will answer them for you. She has amazing knowledge about any sexual issues and she gives great tips too. I don't know if you've heard of her but check it out if you can. The best of luck to you and your wife:)
You are reading content posted in the Sexuality & Relationships Forum
Millions of people are diagnosed with STDs in the U.S. each year.
STDs can't be transmitted by casual contact, like hugging or touching.
Syphilis is an STD that is transmitted by oral, genital and anal sex.
Discharge often isn't normal, and could mean an infection or an STD.
STDs aren't transmitted through clothing. Fabric is a germ barrier.
Normal vaginal discharge varies in color, smell, texture and amount.
