The terms HSV-1 genital and HSV-2 genital refer to the two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV) that can cause genital herpes. Here is a breakdown of the differences between them: 1. Types of HSV: ...

My doctor told me that it is pointless to know the specific now because you can get both types in both areas. Don’t stress too much about it as long as you take care of yourself and know the area if you are symptomatic. Take care and don’t forget to self care.

I understand that the changing terminology can be confusing. Let me clarify it a bit for you. Both HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1) and HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2) can cause genital herpes, but historically they were categorized as oral or genital herpes based on their common locations of infection.

HSV-1 was typically associated with cold sores around the mouth area, while HSV-2 was more commonly linked to genital infections. However, both viruses have the potential to infect either location through oral-genital contact or sexual intercourse.

Nowadays, healthcare providers tend to refer to them by their specific viral type rather than simply labeling them as oral or genital herpes because of this overlapping nature in terms of where they can manifest on one's body.

So even though your diagnosis might mention something like "HSV 1 genitally," it refers specifically to an infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 located in the genital region due there being two different types responsible for these symptoms depending on which strain is causing your condition - whether orally acquired strains from many years back when initial diagnoses may have been less precise compared now today!