To reduce the rate even more, your boyfriend can consider daily anti-herpes viral therapy with Valacyclovir (Valtrex). This medicine keeps herpes at bay, clears it up quickly and appears to reduce transmission by 50 percent to 75 percent. Still, there is no guarantee that you are at zero risk of infection.

How can I stay safe if my partner has herpes?

Always use condoms and dental dams during oral, anal, and vaginal sex. Talk with your partner about taking herpes medicine every day, which can lower their chances of spreading herpes. Dont have sex during a herpes outbreak, even with a condom. There may be sores on places the condom doesnt cover.

Should I sleep with a guy who has herpes?

Between outbreaks, its OK to have sex, as long as your partner understands and accepts the risk that they may contract herpes. For example, as long as you dont have herpes sores on your mouth, you can perform oral sex on your partner, including when you have an outbreak of genital symptoms.