Herpes is one of those STIs that people love to gossip about. Most of the time, the rumors aren’t true… but one in particular is important to know about. If your bf or gf has a cold sore on their mouth, they can definitely pass it to you via oral sex, or any other mouth to genital contact. Although there are some differences in the viruses that cause oral vs. genital herpes, it doesn’t matter when it comes to transmission, or the way it is passed.
If you have had oral herpes in the past, it’s a great idea to talk to your doc or nurse about staying safe with your partner – preventing them from getting the same STI and having a more enjoyable sex life when you know you are being protected and protective!