Can HSV-2 Be Contracted Through Sexual Intercourse?

Posted on Thu, 18 May 2017

Question: About 30 years ago, I was diagnosed with HSV-2. Since my first outbreak, I have had two recurrences -- none in the past 10 years. Last night, I had sexual intercourse with a woman who knows of my situation and is disease free. Our sex lasted about 15 minutes. Afterward, I noticed a herpes lesion on my penis. Based upon our research, it appears her chances of being infected are highly likely. Are you able to quantify the risk of (1) her being infected and (2) the likelihood of her having symptoms? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Regarding genital herpes

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I am Dr. Kakkar (Dermatologist and Venereologist). I have gone through your query and I have noted your concern.
There is an estimated 75% chance of contracting herpes during intimate contact with someone with an active episode of genital herpes.
A new genital herpes infection may either present as a visible sores which arise within a few days (incubation period 2-10 days) of infection Or the new infection may be clinically silent and manifests later.
Majority of the patients who acquire HSV - 2 infection are not aware of it (i.e around 80% acquire the infection silently).

Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar