I contracted genital HSV-1 from receiving oral sex. I have read that your immune system builds up antibodies once you have either form of the HSV. So, being that my boyfriend already has oral HSV-1, would it be difficult for him to get genital HSV-1 from sexual intercourse?
At the same time, would it be difficult for me, now, to contract oral HSV-1?
Hi Cheersdarling,
Thanks for posting your question. I'm not a doctor, not any kind of medical authority, but I do have herpes and have done some research on this.
From information I have seen, it appears that what you say is correct. Once you have antibodies of HSV 1 in your system, it is difficult to get HSV 1 again on another part of the body. It is still definitely possible, but it's not common. You should still be safe and not have sex while either of you is having an outbreak. The advantage of you both having it is you can talk about it and be aware of each other.
For more information I suggest you take a look at the Genital Herpes Prevention, Causes and Risk Factors, and Coping with Herpes pages.
PJ
It is definitely possible to give genital HSV-1 back to your boyfriend, but less likely.
I would also be careful when your boyfriend has a oral HSV outbreak. It is possible to spread HSV-1(re innoculation) to different parts of your body. For instance, oral-anal contact can give you an infection on your anus, where you might have been previously infected on your vulva.
Good luck!
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