HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

I Have Had Occasional Intercourse With Someone Who Has Herpes

default
Posted on Wed, 20 Feb 2019
Question: I have had occasional intercourse with someone who has herpes 2. We have always used condoms, and never had intercourse during an outbreak in 10 years. I have had no symptoms during the whole 10 years. What is the likelihood that I have Herpes 2? Do I need to get tested if I'm moving on to a new partner?
                                                       
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan (32 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Testing for Herpes 2 is suggested when there is a risk.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service.
Thanks for posting your query.

As far as Herpes is concerned, the condom does not offer a high degree of protection.
HSV shedding can occur during the absence of manifestations also especially prior and after an episode for a week or 10 days.

Symptoms in women sometimes were not obvious because of the anatomical nature.

Moreover, if you get anything in future you may not be sure about the source.
So it is better to have a screening for HSV 2 also.

Regards
Dr S.Murugan

Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan

HIV AIDS Specialist

Practicing since :1974

Answered : 3108 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
I Have Had Occasional Intercourse With Someone Who Has Herpes

Brief Answer: Testing for Herpes 2 is suggested when there is a risk. Detailed Answer: Hi, Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service. Thanks for posting your query. As far as Herpes is concerned, the condom does not offer a high degree of protection. HSV shedding can occur during the absence of manifestations also especially prior and after an episode for a week or 10 days. Symptoms in women sometimes were not obvious because of the anatomical nature. Moreover, if you get anything in future you may not be sure about the source. So it is better to have a screening for HSV 2 also. Regards Dr S.Murugan