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STD Advice Column
Can HSV-1 Be Transferred Orally to the Genitals?

Note: This question originally appeared in the dating tips section of Online Dating Magazine.

My girlfriend has HSV-1 and was told that the virus is transferred by kissing and not oral sex. What are the facts surrounding this? ~ Anonymously Concerned

Dear Anonymously Concerned,
According to the CDC:

"HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be found and released from the sores that the viruses cause, but they also are released between episodes from skin that does not appear to be broken or to have a sore. A person almost always gets HSV-2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. HSV-1 causes infections of the mouth and lips, so-called "fever blisters." A person can get HSV-1 by coming into contact with the saliva of an infected person. HSV-1 infection of the genitals almost always is caused by oral-genital sexual contact with a person who has the oral HSV-1 infection."

So not only can HSV-1 be transferred to the genitals, but it's also important to note that HSV-1 can be transferred even to the mouth when sores are not present (although these seem to be rare).

When dating, it is vitally important that you research various STDs, what causes them, how they are transferred, and how to take preventative measures from catching an STD. I applaud you for asking this question.

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Only a physician can properly diagnose whether or not you have an STD. Thus it is important that you get an STD test done if you have a concern. None of the advice given in this column is a substitute for physician advice.

If you think you may have a sexually transmitted disease, you should see a physician immediately to be properly diagnosed and treated. You should not try to diagnose or treat symptoms on your own.

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