In this day and age, it's very common to have a partner with genital herpes. Each person with herpes will experience varying levels of the disease.
Some have more frequent outbreaks. Some have only oral outbreaks. Some have genital and oral outbreaks. Partners may have different types of herpes.
The important thing is to stay informed and be careful.
Any area that has been or is infected with herpes carries the possibility for passing on the virus. However, note that semen does not carry the herpes simplex virus.
You must remember that a person may pass along or contract herpes even when symptoms are not present.
Oral sex is no exception. 80% of Americans with herpes simplex 1 contracted the disease through oral sex. It is never safe to perform oral sex on someone with herpes even if the signs are not present.
Condoms are effective at preventing herpes contraction if used correctly. When using condoms, lubrication should be applied to avoid friction or tearing of the condom. Condoms do not protect the scrotum, fingers and other areas beside the penis.
Dental dams are available with females to have oral sex performed on them. Latex covers the vaginal area preventing transmission of the virus to the partner.
Remember no safe sex practice is 100 percent effective.
There is little risk for re infection if both partners are infected with herpes. However, rough intercourse should be avoided to help prevent sore irritation. Intercourse should be avoided when one partner is exhibiting symptoms of an outbreak.