HSV2 and actually being diagnosed.

[Charmander23]

I went to an urgent care to get STD testing because I had actual exposure to Chalymidia. No big deal, just some antibiotics, right? So I said test me for everything, and treat me for what you can. So I got the call, expected the positive chalymidia results, did not expect to hear I was positive for HSV2. This was over the phone, they probably should have scheduled me to go see my provider but I decided that I'd rather talk to my PCP who is a gynocologist and an internist. So I scheduled the appointment and did my research. My igG level was 16.4, so it was well above positive.

 

I went and talked to my Dr. She said that she didn't think I actually had HSV 2. That I probably just had HSV1 and not to worry about it, after doing research and considering my sexual history (multiple partners generally with protection) I think there is a good chance I'm an asymptomatic carrier. My current boyfriend is basically a saint and has been super supportive while this has all been going on. It's brand new, like a month old relationship but we're both educated, thoughtful people and could really see pursuing a life together. My major concern is that I think I should probably get on antiviral therapy. He hasn't gotten tested yet because he wanted to wait to test in a window that was more accurate, and he is scared because we both have other medical problems so finding significant others is really difficult and if we don't work out then he doesn't want to deal with HSV. We also have the problem that condoms aren't really a great option because he has dealt with trauma and gets turned off easily so condoms typically slip off.

 

So I guess my questions are

1. How do I find a Dr. Experienced with HSV enough to confirm that I have it, because my level is highly suggestive that I have it, though I haven't had an outbreak.

 

2. Has anyone successfully not transferred it without condoms?

 

3. Should I get more confirmation through the Western blot or should I just accept that I likely have this.

 

We are operating as if I definitely have it, and he doesn't.

 

All of my long term sexual partners have tested negative, and I just don't know what to make of the situation.

[Username]

I suspect my husband is an asymptomatic carrier of 1 or 2. I had a visual diagnosis and then tested IgG negative so the assumption is that I got this from my husband and the outbreak was from a recent exposure, hence the negative IgG. If our assumption is correct that would mean it took 15 years of lots of great oral and vaginal sex, NEVER once with a condom, before I got it. And truth be told, I'd do it again because my husband is awesome and our sex is great! I can definitely say I had fun contracting herpes. It's better than celibacy, that's for sure!

[Username]

Sorry, I know that doesn't answer all your questions but I answered what I could.

[HikingGirl]

So I guess my questions are

1. How do I find a Dr. Experienced with HSV enough to confirm that I have it, because my level is highly suggestive that I have it, though I haven't had an outbreak.

 

2. Has anyone successfully not transferred it without condoms?

 

3. Should I get more confirmation through the Western blot or should I just accept that I likely have this.

 

Trial and error. It’s shocking how many health care providers are misinformed or uninformed about HSV.

 

If your IgG index value is that high, you definitely have HSV. And if you had the IgG test, it will tell you whether it’s HSV1 or HSV2. Just call the doctor’s office and ask to have the labs pulled so they can tell you the type, or ask for a copy so you can see for yourself.

 

I unknowingly had HSV1 and HSV2 the entire time I was with my ex-husband (16 years). I was diagnosed after our divorce, and he later tested negative for both types once I shared my results with him. I have no idea why he never got it and most likely will never know.

 

I personally wouldn’t bother with a western blot. An index value of 16.4 is well outside the range of uncertainty. (Experts recommend further testing if your index value falls between 1.1 and 3.5.). 89% of those with HSV don’t know they have it, either because they don’t have any symptoms, or their symptoms are so mild they mistake them for other things. That’s how I went 18-25 years with absolutely no clue I had HSV.

[Charmander23]

Thanks, that's how I feel too. my IgG was positive for type , I think I just wanted to believe what she was telling me. Thank you for answering. I am going to try a new gynocologist.