Updated March 20, 2026. Medically reviewed by Rosanna Sutherby, PharmD. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
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Table of contents
- What Is Herpes and What Causes It?
- Is Asymptomatic Herpes Less Contagious?
- How Common is Herpes?
- Who Is Most At Risk for Herpes?
- Herpes Complications and Risks
- Herpes Diagnosis and Treatment
- Best Practices for Preventing Herpes
- Next Steps
It might come as a surprise, but it’s possible to have herpes and not even know it. [1] In fact, many people with herpes don’t know they have this sexually transmitted infection (STI) because they don’t experience any symptoms. This is what’s known as asymptomatic herpes.
Herpes is just one of several STIs that can be asymptomatic, making regular testing a crucial part of any sexual care plan. Whether you’re currently concerned about your STI status or simply revisiting your approach to sexual well-being, understanding what herpes is, how it spreads, and how it’s diagnosed can help reduce the risk of transmission.
What Is Herpes and What Causes It?
Herpes is the second most prevalent STI in the US, affecting an estimated 18.6 million people. [1] It’s a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
- HSV-1 – Typically causes cold sores around the mouth and spreads through skin-to-skin contact.
- HSV-2 – The most common cause of genital herpes, leading to symptoms like blisters, painful urination, and swollen lymph nodes.
Herpes is incurable, meaning the virus stays in the body and can become dormant between outbreaks. Some people experience frequent symptoms, while others may never notice any at all.
Is Asymptomatic Herpes Less Contagious?
No. Herpes can still be transmitted even when no symptoms are present. Using protection and knowing your status are key steps in reducing transmission risk.
Herpes Symptoms
- Itching or tenderness
- Blisters or sores
- Painful urination
- Flu-like symptoms during initial outbreak
How Common is Herpes?
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are both extremely common worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 67% of the global population under age 50 has HSV-1, while about 13% has HSV-2. [4]
In the United States, millions of people are living with HSV, many of whom may not realize it. Because herpes is often asymptomatic or causes very mild symptoms, it can go undiagnosed and unknowingly spread between partners.
This is part of what makes herpes so common: people can carry and transmit the virus without ever experiencing noticeable outbreaks. As a result, regular STI screening and open communication with partners play an important role in reducing transmission risk and staying informed about your sexual health.
Who Is Most At Risk for Herpes?
Anyone who is sexually active can be at risk for herpes, but certain factors can increase the likelihood of exposure. Risk is higher among individuals with multiple sexual partners and among women, as transmission of HSV-2 tends to occur more efficiently from men to women.
Other factors that may increase risk include having unprotected sex, having a partner with a known herpes infection, or having another sexually transmitted infection (STI), which can make it easier for the virus to enter the body.
Because herpes can be transmitted even when no symptoms are present, many people who are at risk may not realize they’ve been exposed. This is why regular testing and open communication with partners are important parts of reducing risk and staying informed about your sexual health.
Herpes Complications and Risks
- Inflammation affecting urinary and sexual organs
- Increased STI risk, including HIV
- Newborn complications if transmitted during birth
In rare cases, herpes can lead to more serious conditions affecting the brain or other organs.
Herpes Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect herpes, testing is the best next step. You can visit a provider or take an at-home STD test.
Treatment typically includes antiviral medications like acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir, which help reduce symptoms and transmission risk.
Best Practices for Preventing Herpes
Use barrier protection and avoid sexual activity during outbreaks. If you or your partner have symptoms, consult a healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity.
Next Steps
If you’re unsure about your STI status or noticing symptoms, getting clarity early can help you make informed decisions and protect your health.
Starting with an at-home STD test can be a simple, convenient way to screen from the privacy of home. If you need treatment or have questions about your symptoms, you can also explore online care options and connect with a licensed provider.
When in doubt, reaching out to a healthcare professional can help you better understand what’s going on and guide you toward the right next steps with confidence.
References
- CDC. STI prevalence data. Accessed Dec 18, 2023.
- CDC. Genital herpes facts. Accessed Dec 18, 2023.
- Mayo Clinic. Genital herpes overview. Accessed Dec 18, 2023.
- WHO. Herpes simplex virus data. Accessed Dec 18, 2023.
- Johns Hopkins. Herpes complications. Accessed Dec 18, 2023.
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