06/03/2026
For a long time, HSV 2 was believed to be the main cause of ge***al herpes. However, research over the years has shown that an increasing number of ge***al herpes cases are now linked to HSV 1, the type more commonly associated with oral cold sores.
Today, oral transmission of HSV 1 is recognized as a common way many people, especially teens and young adults, acquire ge***al herpes for the first time.
Some factors that may increase the risk of transmission include:
• Unprotected s*x
• Oral, va**nal, or a**l s*x with an infected partner
• A weakened immune system, which may make the body more vulnerable to infections
One important thing to understand is that herpes can sometimes spread even when no sores or visible symptoms are present.
Knowing the facts matters. Understanding how HSV spreads can help people make informed decisions, reduce stigma, and better protect their health. 🌿