Confused and trying to pin point

[Junior]

Hello everyone. I am very thankful for a forum like this to exist. I wanted to know how long does it take typically to experience signs and symptoms of hsv2 after exposure? 
I was with someone on the 28th of September, and with partner #2 on the 30th of September. Partner #2 and I again were with each other on the 11th and 13th of October. We both began feeling symptoms on the 16th of October, and later both tested positive for hsv2. She later shared with me she had been with someone a day or two prior to me, and I shared with her that I was with someone the 28th of September a couple days before her on the 30th. She points the finger at me but before I point back I want to be sure and really figure out if it was me. Thanks guys

[mr_hopp]

Hey there @Junior,

Glad you found our lil H Opp space — welcome.

The typical incubation period for HSV-2 symptoms is about 2-12 days after exposure, with most people experiencing symptoms around day 4-5. But here’s the catch: not everyone shows symptoms right away, or even at all. HSV can stay dormant for years before showing up (it did for me), so pinpointing exactly who passed it to who isn’t always clear.

From what you’ve shared, it’s possible that either partner could have already had HSV-2 before meeting you, or you could have had it without symptoms before this recent activity. The timing overlaps, but there’s no way to say for sure who had it first or when it was transmitted.

Instead of focusing on blame, try to shift toward managing it together. It’s great you’re both aware now — it means you can take steps to protect yourselves and future partners. Be kind to yourself as you navigate this; it’s complicated, but you’re not alone.

[Junior]

@mr_hopp thank you for responding. I really appreciate it. The day the provider swapped the area, I requested a blood test. The results came back negative (for 1 & 2). She explained to me that had I contracted 3 or more months prior even years it’d show in the results, despite being dormant. She said it was likely from a recent exposure. I do agree the time does overlap. It’s just hard not knowing.