Family Planning Plus

No, it does not necessarily mean that your boyfriend “gave” it to you.  Herpes is a virus. Herpes Simplex type 1 (HSV1) is very common. It is the type of herpes responsible for cold sores. Most people are positive for HSV1. Most of us are exposed and infected as children….by our parents, other family members,  or friends. One can be exposed to herpes by kissing or eating after an infected individual. In the past, HSV1 was typically thought of as occurring “above the belt”.

Herpes Simplex type 2 (HSV2), most commonly known as genital herpes, is also a virus. It occurs in approximately 1 in 4 sexually active individuals, so it, too, is common. HSV2 commonly produces sores in the genital area.  The sores usually start out as blisters, then “pop” and drain yellow discharge. After that, sores will crust over and heal. Genital herpes, much like a cold sore on  your lip, can be very painful. In the past, HSV2 was considered to occur “below the belt”.

Okay, some reminders about viruses. You can be exposed to a virus and not become infected. You can be infected with a virus and not have any symptoms. Viruses can lay dormant (asleep) in your body and never cause a problem. If something (illness, stress, pregnancy) occurs that decreases the immune system, that herpes virus can be activated. Once the virus “wakes” up, it can cause symptoms. This is why some folks test positive for herpes but have never had any kind of sores, lips or otherwise. Their immune system is functioning properly, keeping the virus at bay. When the HSV is active and causing sores, it is referred to as an “outbreak”.  Outbreaks can be frequent or infrequent. They can last for 3  to 14 days. 

Because the herpes virus can live dormant in the body forever, it is impossible to tell when you were infected or who infected you, especially if you had previous partners. (If you were a virgin and your boyfriend was your first sexual partner, then, yes, it was him.).  Your boyfriend may or may not be infected with HSV. He may be infected but have no symptoms. If he is positive, he may not know who infected him. So, very hard to “blame” when it comes to the virus infections. Even if you are not having an outbreak, it is still possible to shed the virus, thus exposing your partner. How much exposure any single person needs in order to be infected is unknown.

Of the two types, HSV1 is usually the milder type, with outbreaks typically being less frequent and less severe. HSV2 can occur more frequently, and for obvious reasons, be more uncomfortable. The frequency and severity of outbreaks, however, does depend on an individual’s immune system.

Remember before when I said  HSV1 was typically “above the belt ” and  HSV2 was “below the belt”? With the increase in oral sex, we are seeing more outbreaks of HSV1 in the genital area. If you have a cold sore and perform oral sex, it is possible to infect your partner. HSV2 is not usually known to cause cold sores. Valtrex or Acyclovir is effective at treating herpes infections. These medications can be taken only when needed or on a daily basis, depending on the frequency of outbreaks. There is no cure for herpes.

HSV2 does not cause infertility, nor does it shorten lifespan. People who have HSV can have normal, active sex lives. It is advised to abstain from sex during an outbreak, and to use condoms during sexual activity to protect your partner. Telling a partner about HSV infection can be embarrassing and difficult, but having open, honest communication is important in relationships.

The only way to tell what type of HSV you are infected with is by having a blood test done for HSV1 and HSV2 antibodies. If you have any further questions or concerns, it may help to discuss these with your doctor or clinic.