HSV-2, or herpes simplex virus type 2, is the leading cause of genital herpes. While both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can affect the genital area, HSV-2 is more likely to recur, spread without symptoms, and cause long-term management concerns. Understanding how HSV-2 works can help you make informed decisions about your health, your relationships, and whether testing is right for you.
What Is HSV-2?
Herpes simplex virus type 2 is a lifelong infection that primarily affects the genital area. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Once contracted, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate over time—sometimes with symptoms, sometimes silently through viral shedding.
According to the CDC, more than 10% of U.S. adults carry HSV-2, but most don’t know they have it. That’s because symptoms can be mild, mistaken for something else, or absent altogether.
HSV-2 vs. HSV-1: Key Differences
- HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes and tends to recur more frequently
- HSV-1: More commonly causes oral herpes but can also cause genital herpes (with fewer recurrences)
Unlike HSV-1, which is often acquired in childhood, HSV-2 is almost always sexually transmitted and more aggressive when it infects the genital area. It also sheds more frequently without symptoms, increasing the risk of unknowingly passing it to a partner.
How HSV-2 Is Transmitted
HSV-2 is spread through direct contact with infected skin or fluids—especially during sexual activity. It can be transmitted even when no sores or symptoms are visible, which makes it difficult to avoid without awareness and communication.
Using condoms and antiviral therapy can reduce transmission risk, but testing and honest conversations are still the most reliable ways to protect partners.
Living with HSV-2: What to Expect
The first outbreak is usually the most severe, often including painful sores, itching, burning, or flu-like symptoms. After that, many people experience occasional recurrences that are less intense and shorter in duration. Some people may only have one outbreak in their lifetime.
Even without symptoms, HSV-2 remains in the body and can reactivate. This reactivation may cause symptoms—or result in asymptomatic shedding.
Managing HSV-2
HSV-2 cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Daily antiviral medications (like valacyclovir or acyclovir) can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of passing the virus to others. Many people living with HSV-2 never experience major symptoms after their initial outbreak, especially with suppressive therapy.
Identifying personal outbreak triggers—like stress, illness, or hormonal changes—can also help you manage flare-ups proactively.
Should You Get Tested for HSV-2?
If you’ve had unprotected sex, a partner who tested positive, or recurring symptoms you don’t understand, testing may help. Type-specific IgG blood tests can detect HSV-2 antibodies with high accuracy 12+ weeks after exposure.
You can test at a lab or order a home collection kit. Providers like STDCheck and myLAB Box offer reliable, private testing with results typically available in 1–5 business days.
FAQs About HSV-2
Is HSV-2 more serious than HSV-1?
Not necessarily, but it’s more likely to recur in the genital area and shed silently. That makes it more likely to spread unless managed well.
Can HSV-2 be cured?
No—there’s no cure, but symptoms and transmission risk can be managed through antiviral medications and lifestyle adjustments.
Can HSV-2 be spread without symptoms?
Yes. Asymptomatic shedding is common with HSV-2, which means you can transmit the virus even if you feel fine. Suppressive therapy helps reduce this risk.
Learn More
Need to Confirm Your Status?
You can get tested for HSV-2 at home or through a nationwide lab. Results are fast, discreet, and physician-reviewed.