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Question: If I suffers from cold sores (herpes simplex 1) but not from genital herpes (herpes simplex 2), is it possible for me to pass on the virus to my partner during oral sex even if I am cold-sore free at the time?
Answer: Unfortunately, yes, even though the chances are slim, both Herpes Simplex Type 1 (cold sores) and Herpes Simplex Type 2 (genital herpes), can infect either the mouth or genitals. Likewise, both cold sores and genital herpes can be transferred from one partner to another even if the infected partner is asymptomatic at the time.
Since there are few faster ways to ruin a relationship than when one partner give the other herpes, lets clear-up some more herpes misinformation that could save you from giving or receiving the gift that keeps on giving.
- Even though a big ole cold sore on someone's lip or mouth is a good indication that they do have herpes simplex type 1, you can't tell if someone has genital herpes just by the way they look, live or act. If someone suffers from cold sores it doesn't mean they are more or less likely to also suffer from genital herpes, likewise if someone does not suffer from cold sores that doesn't mean they don't have genital herpes.
Eighty million Americans have herpes — that's at least one in six adults, including that cute date who forgot to bring condoms.
- Intercourse is not the only way herpes is spread. Herpes is spread from skin to skin contact. That means you can get herpes (cold sores or genital) from kissing, performing or receiving oral sex, or touch an infected area with any part of your body
- Someone can have herpes and not even know it. Herpes symptoms usually develop within 2 to 20 days after contact with the virus, however it could take longer and in some cases (especially women) the newly infected person may remain asymptomatic but still be able to pass on the virus to others.
- Herpes can be spread between outbreaks, even when no signs or symptoms are present. It can also be spread by asymptomatic people who don't even know they are infected.
- You can get herpes in your eyes, on your fingers and on other parts of the body by touching an outbreak. Soap and water will kill the virus on the surface of your skin, however, once you are infected, soap and water will not get rid off cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks.
- Aside from abstinence, there is no sure fire way to protect yourself from contracting herpes during intimacy with an infected partner. Next to abstinence, using latex condoms is the most recommended safeguard against contracting herpes, but it is far from 100% effective.
If you suspect you might have some form of the herpes virus or if you have a partner that has herpes, please see your local health care provider for a diagnosis and medical advise. For more information about herpes, including clinical pictures, frequently asked questions and news about a possible herpes cure, please visit our website at www.herpes-pics.com
This article is part of a free educational series of articles written by John Trout, on the subject of the herpes virus. To read the complete series go to: http://www.herpes-pics.com/herpes_article_series.htm |
