Medications · FAQ
Does valacyclovir prevent spreading genital herpes to a partner?
Short answer
Valacyclovir does not eliminate the risk of spreading genital herpes. Daily treatment may lower that risk for some people with genital herpes caused by HSV-2. Results vary. Avoid sexual contact during warning symptoms or outbreaks, and use condoms or other barriers. Herpes can spread even when no sores are visible.
Taking valacyclovir does not make genital herpes impossible to spread. The virus can be present on skin even when you have no sores or other symptoms. Daily suppressive treatment may lower the risk of passing genital HSV-2 to a partner in some situations. Results vary. It is not complete protection.
Avoid vaginal, anal, and oral sex involving the affected area during an outbreak. Also avoid contact when warning signs such as tingling, itching, or burning begin. Wait until sores are fully healed. Condoms and other barriers can lower exposure, but they do not cover all skin where the virus may be present.
Talk openly with partners about herpes and discuss prevention with your clinician. Whether daily treatment is appropriate depends on your infection type, outbreak history, and other factors. A partner may also benefit from medical advice about testing. Do not share your prescription with a partner. If either partner is pregnant or planning pregnancy, tell the pregnancy care team about the herpes history.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.