Infected Partners and Sex w/o a Condom
Hello. Is there a final word on sex between infected partners w/o using a condom? I was told by my healthcare provider that I could increase my "viral-load". Obviously, we would not have sex if either of us were having an outbreak, and oral sex is out. My symptoms are extremely mild, especially when compared to pictures online, and I've only presented blisters once, during my initial outbreak. I take Valtrex when I "feel" it coming on, which is rarely, and this seems to suppress outbreak.
All of the data that I've found seems to suggest that once the virus has "established" a "site" (the exact area were blisters would present), transmission is still possible between infected individuals, but new "site establishment" is unlikely. This is possibly due to our antibody response. If this is the case, what is the real harm in having unprotected sex with an infected partner (though I have HSV-2, assume I am intelligent enough to guard against other pathogens and unwanted pregnancy) if we are careful to avoid sex during any outbreaks. Will any potential increase in viral load present further complications like more frequent and/or severe breakouts? Are there other potential negative effects?Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
Increasing viral load has to do with one of you being in remission while the other is having a recurrence and the transfer of virus to the one in remission. It's not a healthy practice which is why we tell even couples who both have HSV2 to use condoms and to still practice safe sex, so to speak and of course, t consider using Valtrex.
- Thank you for your input
- Ranked Helpful (2)
- Report Abuse
