My new partner just told me that he has a history of genital herpes. I really like him, but I'm terrified of getting herpes, what should I do?

Genital herpes is common. It is usually caused by HSV-2, but it can also be caused by HSV-1. About 12% of people in the US have been infected with HSV-2. Its possible you've been infected with HSV-2 in the past and don't know it, because not everyone who gets infected with HSV-2 develops symptoms (for example, ulcers or an ""outbreak""). You could ask your primary care provider to test you for antibodies to HSV-2, this would tell you whether or not you've already been infected.

I was diagnosed with genital herpes a few years ago, but haven't had an outbreak in over 8 months. I just got into a new relationship, should I tell my partner?

Though it can be difficult, it is recommended to discuss a herpes diagnosis with a potential sex partner. Doing so can set the relationship off on the right foot and allow both of you to be involved in a conversation about prevention strategies. For a great resource for talking with partners about a herpes diagnosis, check out: https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/herpes-and-relationships/.

My partner gets cold sores and his doctor said they are from herpes. Is it possible for him to transmit herpes to me when he goes down on me? If so, does it matter whether or not he has cold sores when we have sex?

It is definitely possible to spread herpes from one partner’s mouth to another partner’s genitals during oral sex, which would result in the uninfected partner contracting genital HSV-1. Transmission is more likely when sores are present, but sometimes herpes can be transmitted without any symptoms – we call this “asymptomatic viral shedding.” This shedding can happen in both oral and genital herpes infections. Shedding is most common in the first few months after getting a new infection, and the frequency of shedding depends on which type of HSV you have and where the infection is.

I received a hepatitis B vaccine shot a few years ago but never went back for the 2nd and 3rd shots. Should I start all over?

No. Regardless of when you received your first hepatitis B shot, you do not need to start over. You should go ahead and get your second shot as soon as possible and then get the third shot two months later. You can also ask your provider to order a blood test to see if your body has responded to the vaccine by making antibodies.

I have Hepatitis B. I was diagnosed six weeks ago. Can I give Hep B to my partner by kissing? How about giving or receiving oral sex? We haven't had anal sex yet, but I assume a condom will protect both the top and the bottom?

Hepatitis B virus is found in blood, semen, and vaginal fluid. The virus can be passed from person to person when one of these fluids has contact with cuts or punctures in the skin or with the moist skin (mucosa) around the genitals or anus. Although hepatitis B virus can be found in saliva, it is not believed to be transmitted through kissing. Giving and receiving oral sex does put your partner at risk, particularly if you receive.

What type of lube is best for anal sex?

While water-based lubricants (for example, astroglide) are the most commonly recommended type of lubrication, many people like silicone-based lubricants (for example, Wet). Silicone-based lube lasts longer, is still effective in water and you need less of it. In addition, there are some data that silicone-based lubricants are less irritating to the rectal mucosa (i.e. the butt), and that people who use silicone-based lube are less likely to get rectal STIs than those who use water-based lube. Oil-based lubricants (e.g.

Lately I've been having problems getting an erection while wearing a condom. I'm on PrEP, so I'm not too worried about HIV, but I've had chlamydia and syphilis a few times and want to protect myself against STIs. What should I do?

There a lot of different reasons why you might be having a hard time getting an erection. Sometimes when we're mentally stressed or depressed, our dicks work (or don’t work) differently.  One idea is to practice jacking off with a condom to make it easier to get hard when you're wearing a condom with a partner. You may also want to see a doctor to talk about other things that could be making it difficult to get hard, such as medications or medical problems like diabetes.  Its great that you're on PrEP, but as you shared in your question - PrEP prevents HIV but not other STIs.

Are polyurethane condoms any better than latex? Are they more effective in stopping the transmission of HIV? I would prefer to use polyurethane because I can use oil-based lubricants with them.

Both version of today's marketed condoms are extremely effective when used consistently and correctly. Fortunately, there are increasing condom choices including new sizes and textures. In addition to latex and polyurethane condoms, the FC2 condom is a great option for women whose partners don't want to or can't wear a condom, and for bottoms who want to protect themselves during receptive anal intercourse (that is having someone else's penis in your butt).

Any tips for how to use a condom?

Pinch the air out of the tip, unroll the condom to the base of the penis and use plenty of lube (reduced friction = less likely to break or tear the condom). Remove the condom after ejaculation while the penis is still erect. To ensure the condom does not come off too early, hold the condom at the base of your penis when pulling out of your partner. The addition of a good quality, water based lube will of course mean less risk of the condom breaking. Always be sure to check the expiration date on the condom. Don't use any that have worn or torn wrappers.

I'm a top. I was wondering if I can get HIV from barebacking. I know it's risky for the bottom who is receiving cum, but what about the top who is giving it?

Yes, you can get HIV from topping (putting your penis in someone else's butt) without a condom. While the risk of getting HIV from topping is about 10 times less than from bottoming, there is still a significant risk. The risk of getting HIV from topping is higher if you are uncircumcised (uncut). If you are not using condoms 100% of the time, PrEP is a great way to protect yourself from HIV.
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