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A 23-year-old female asked:

I get cold sores on my lip. i just got one but ive been taking valacyclovir for two days. i put ointment on it, washed my hands and then masturbated. im freaking out. can i spread it to my genitals?

3 doctor answers6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Hunter Handsfield
Infectious Disease 55 years experience
Self transfer of HSV from one part of the body to another is rare, and only occurs during the initial infection with herpes. Since you have longstanding recurrent oral herpes, your immune system prevents you from infecting your penis or anywhere else. Don't worry about it. Your oral herpes will remain only in your mouth area and never show up anywhere else.
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Dr. Birendra Tandan
Urology 36 years experience
If you washed your hands well the there is no chance of your spreading it to your genitals
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Robert Trager
Dentistry 56 years experience
It is good you are concerned about yourself, but you did the proper health cleansing so no transfer. Now don't have any intimacy with anyone until it clears up.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Aug 1, 2022

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