sex when both have HSV-2

[bt1959]

Everything I've found so far talks about protecting an uninfected partner. What about if both partners have HSV-2 ? Can we still partake in oral sex like we did before this or not ?

[Debbie Miller, RN]

Hello,
It is possible to transfer the virus to the mouth through oral sex so if you want to avoid such complications you should be cautious about oral sex, perhaps using a condom. This variety of herpes prefers the genitals but can be spread to the mouth as well.

Best wishes.

[bt1959]

A follow up to the original question. At initial infection my partner had effects both vaginally and orally. Since she was infected already both locations, does it still have an affect on whether we can have oral sex now ? Once an area is infected, can it be re-infected, or is the damage already done and it doesn't matter anymore ?

[Debbie Miller, RN]

Hello,
You are correct in assuming that the "damage has been done" as far as she is concerned, being infected both routes, and reinfection would not happen unless you did not have the oral form and were to acquire it through oral sex with your partner. Outbreaks can occur in isolation or in clusters but it would not be due to a new infection transferred between you.

Best wishes.

[bt1959]

Your last response was a little complicated for me. Can she be re-infected from oral sex, or not since she was already infected orally once ? What are my chances getting orally infected since I wasn't initially ? We both only have HSV-2, neither have HSV-1.