Suggest Treatment For Herpes

Posted on Mon, 28 Aug 2017

Question: Is it possible to have an STD and show no symptoms? I had intercourse on July 16 with a stranger. My husband and I had not been sexually active for a long time, but we did have intercourse on July 29. I show no symptoms, but my husband has blisters on his penis like shingles. Could it be an STD?

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Herpes carrier state and asymptomatic viral shedding

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HealthacareMagic

Yes, it is possible to have herpes simplex infection and transmit the infection to your partner without having any symptoms.
Underlying herpes infection and potential transmission of infection to sexual partners without any symptoms is called carrier state and asymptomatic viral shedding.
Since your sexual encounter with a partner of unknown status is rather recent, the virus may be in the dormant state. The virus can remain in the dormant state for varied periods of time before causing symptoms. The usual period of dormancy is 2-12 days after exposure.

Blood testing looking for serum antibody (IgG and IgM antibody) level against Herpes virus helps to confirm the diagnosis. Using a condom until you undergo the blood test to rule out/confirm carrier state will prevent the spread of infection.

Hope this answers your question
Please address further questions here
Regards,
Dr.Lekshmi

Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T