What are the consequences of sexual activities while having cold sores?

Question

Hello doctor,

I think I have HSV-1, and it is usually associated with cold sores. I got it when I was a child. I randomly experienced cold sores on my lips whenever I was stressed or sick. Would you please suggest me what to do? Should I inform my sexual partner about the risks of kissing them or performing oral or sexual intercourse with them? What are the consequences if I continue to have sexual activities with my partner?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for writing in, and I understand your concern. Your symptoms suggest herpes infection, and you must speak to your partner and avoid kissing or having sexual intercourse with them. It can transmit the condition and cause sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Please feel free to ask for more information.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Let me explain this to you briefly. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses, that is HSV-1 and HSV-2. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) remains asymptomatic but gets activated when the immune system is compromised; that is, when infection reoccurs. It typically shows as a cold sore. It is transmitted orally but can also be transmitted through genitals via sexual intercourse. In comparison, the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) is commonly a sexually transmitted disease.

I hope you found this useful.

Thank you.