OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist) Questions Genital Herpes

Genitals herpes and cold sore

Could I get genital herpes if I touched my lip that has a cold sore and then touched my genitals?

Female | 19 years old

3 Answers

You would have to have active virus on your fingers, and touch your genitals right away, so it is possible , but not that likely, it depends what stage the oral herpes lesion is at. But it is always good to practice good personal hygiene and doing that is not good to do.
Hi
Yes oral herpes can become genital herpes. Usually oral herpes is HSV-1. This can become genital herpes if passed.
Yes, it is possible to contaminate yourself. Be careful.