There are two types of herpes, HSV 1 and HSV 2. But they’re just two strains to the same herpes virus. One strain has no stigma whatsoever and the other has entirely too much. Can you guess which?

To keep it all straight, here are all the ways oral herpes is referred to as:

  • “cold sores” or mouth herpes
  • HSV1 (or HSV-1)
  • Herpes simplex virus 1
  • Herpes type 1
  • Herpes A

… and all the ways genital herpes is referred to as:

  • penis herpes or vagina herpes
  • HSV2 (or HSV-2)
  • Herpes simplex virus 2
  • Herpes type 2
  • Herpes B

Oral herpes is known as the common cold sore. 80% of Americans have oral herpes, so there’s a clear lack of stigma. HSV1 prefers to be in the drier mucous membrane of the outer mouth, yet can still show up on the genitals (if oral sex is given during an outbreak, for example).

Genital herpes has way too much stigma. 16% of Americans have genital herpes (1 out of 6). What shows up on people’s lips without a stigma is the same that shows up on the genitals with a stigma. Genital herpes can show up on the mouth, but is much less likely because HSV2 prefers to be in the warm, moist environment of the genitals.

Feeling alone with herpes? You’re in good company. Read on to discover how to shake that lonely feeling.

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