Question:
I have genital herpes, as does my boyfriend. We have been apart since we realized we both have it and now we are going to be together again sexually.

What i need to know is, do we still have to use protection since we both already have it? (i am on the pill and we are monogamous). Does having sex instigate an outbreak if both partners have it?

Also, can either one of us get this on our mouths from oral sex? I read somewhere that once you have one strain of herpes, you have an immunity to the other kind. I have never had any oral herpes symptoms, and we have had unprotected oral sex many times.

This is something I'm desperately trying to find out. I would really really appreciate a response from anyone who knows. Thanks

Answer:
Hi Bella.
You may want to read up on this stuff. I think herpeshappens.com is a good site.
I'm not a professional, but I do know you can get herpes in multiple areas. I used to have just one sore that came up on my butt cheek. Now I get it on my vagina and anus too.
You should always wash your hands after touching the area. And I think you can get it in your mouth.
My doctor said you can't get new strands. Sex does trigger outbreaks for me.
Check out that site if you get a chance.
Hope this helps.
Layla

Answer:
Hi Bella,

If both you and your partner are infected, psychologically, it's easier to deal with.

Physically, however, remember the following:

1. Herpes can spread from genitals to your mouth and lips (and vice versa) during oral sex.

2. The risk of transmission is small, but still possible when you don't have an outbreak. Use of a barrier (condom or "dental dam") will reduce an already small risk to next to nothing (no one will ever say zero risk to anything about herpes, but barriers work well. Just be mindful of where you have outbreaks and make sure those spots are covered).

3. Consider taking suppresive therapy. See your doctor about that. More importantly though...

4. Herpes is kept in check by your immune system. Do things to keep it strong. Check ways to improve your diet and lifestyle. The three easiest are: don't smoke, don't drink, and (sadly) no coffee. Remember you're only human too on this last point!

5. Herpes outbreaks are caused by stresses to your system. Sun, exercise and other physical exertion (like sex) and alcohol etc. all cause outbreaks. Be mindful of those.

6. Pay attention to your body. Learn what it feels like when you're about to have an outbreak and avoid sex with your partner then (or do other things away from your infection when you have an outbreak).

Most importantly, continue to enjoy sex! Just be active about protecting each other and others.

Answer:
I echo what the other responses said, but would just add...

Learn everything you can about HSV...

Talk it thru with your partner, make a decision together...

Don't be afraid to live life and have fun!!!! :wink:

Answer:
bella-

I'm looking for the same answer you are, and can't find it.

For everyone else here the question is:

IF TWO PARTNERS HAVE THE SAME VIRUS CAN SEXUAL CONTACT TRIGGER AN OUTBREAK OF HSV 1? How about HSV 2?

Answer:
IF TWO PARTNERS HAVE THE SAME VIRUS CAN SEXUAL CONTACT TRIGGER AN OUTBREAK OF HSV 1? How about HSV 2? In the study, say, if you both have HSV-2, both are immune to the virus, so you won't get it each other. ( in this case, still not immune to HSV-1)

But I heard a real story from someone...
This woman got HSV-2 in genital from her husband. They thought that they were immune to the virus, so they didn't worry about getting it in other parts of their body. They performed oral, as a result, her husband got HSV-2 in his mouth.

I hope I understood your question correctly (Is the answer what you were looking for..?)

Best wishes

Faith