I'm not sure if I should post this here or on the mental health board. I had unprotected sex almost seven weeks ago. I didn't know much about the guy, but about a week after developed itching and the classic cottage cheese discharge which my gyn diagnosed as a yeast infection. I took monistat and lotrisone which cleared it up. Since then, I've had sporadic pain (especially when sitting) like shooting pains in my clit and on the outside of my vulva. (I've been looking at myself a lot.) My doctor said I was fine, but I the test was only done three weeks possible and exposure and I still have this lurking fear of herpes. Today, I had what I thought was two episodes of burning in my vagina, but it may have been because my new boyfriend fingered me and was kinda rough. That is my main question. He had blisters on his hand because of his job and now I am afraid I have infected him (too early for sex). Is it possible to get herpes through fingering and if so is it rare? I've had cold sores since a child and still get them and I know I was never diligent about washing my hands and I always have cuts and stuff on my hand, but never got them on my hands. I am stressing so much about this now that it actually has me drinking. I would never have intentionally put him at risk its just at the time I was fine and believed I must have been negative. I mean no antivirals and no outbreaks. Now, I'm thinking I have it again. I'm actually writing letters to him in my head apologizing for infecting him. I've looked on the internet, but can't find much about herpes on the hands or how common it is. If anyone knows, please help.

The only thing I've ever read is that it is possible to get a herpes sore on a finger. I have never known anyone who has had it there, however.

Sounds like you need to talk to him about all this! He could (and should) turn into a source of great support. In any case, he needs to know what risks he may be taking. Good luck.

I guess it is possible but I've heard that it's very rare contracting it on ur finger and then passing it on that way.

when I was infected with genital herpes (type 1 via oral sex) over a year ago, I also got blisters on my finger and both my nipples. Herpes on the hand/fingers is called herpetic whitlow. The virus apparently entered my nipples through my piercings, and my finger via a very open hangnail that I had. While I have had a few very minor genital outbreaks since, I have not had any re-occurances on my finger or my nipples. I'm not sure how rare it is, but you could find out more info on it by doing an internet search for "herpetic whitlow".

i have excema and was doing some research on herpes and discovered that excema can contract herpes, and that was kind of frightening to hear because i usually get it on my hands but have decided to get some gloves for cleaning the sores even tho i really try not to touch them very much and wash with antibacterial soap (but alot of that doesnt help my skin)argh its always a battle trying to keep my skin healthy AND clean

[This message has been edited by dot9 (edited 10-09-2003).]