HomeAnswersFamily Physicianherpetic ulcersCan HSV-2 cause cervical cancer?

Does a cold sore indicate cervical cancer?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At May 12, 2021
Reviewed AtMay 12, 2021

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Can a cold sore virus cause cervical cancer? I never had sex before, but I have caught a cold sore from one of my friend's children who drank after me. I am worried. Please help.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for the query. I can understand your concern. Most of the cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type1 (HSV-1) that usually occur on lips and usually not transmitted by sexual contact. Another type of cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 usually does not cause cervical cancer, but women with HSV-2 are more prone to develop cervical cancer. All women are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Among them, those who have HSV-2 associated cold sores or other infections for a long time are more vulnerable to develop cervical cancer than women without HSV-2 associated infections. The initial symptom of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding, abnormal vaginal bleeding during intercourse, between periods, or after menopause. Menstrual periods may be found heavier and prolonged. Pain during intercourse, vaginal discharge, or foul odor also may be associated with cervical cancer. Taking proper care of your cold sores will help you to prevent any complications in the near future. Take care and let me know if I can assist you further.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

Will I get the cold sore that most little kids get? That is how I got it from one of my friend's children drinking after me. Is that the same type that causes cervical cancer? Please explain.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As you have mentioned, I have understood how you got the cold sore. As mentioned earlier, a cold sore is usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), but herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) may also cause a cold sore. Cold sores that HSV-2 causes may cause cervical cancer. Women with HSV-2 may be prone to develop cervical cancer in the long run. So, you can confirm the causative agent of your cold sore by a biopsy, whether HSV-1 or HSV-2 caused it, and then treat it accordingly. Women with HSV-2 are vulnerable to develop cervical cancer. Take care. In case of any other query, knock me.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Muhammad Zubayer Alam
Dr. Muhammad Zubayer Alam

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

herpetic ulcershsvcold sores

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Family Physician

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy