im curious to this, when i was diagnosed because i had an outbreak ironically it was in the upper back part of the butt cheek. which is where it 95% of the time is and can be on either side. however i always wondered why there, im happy it's not elsewhere but why there and also how did that happen when i first got it from my partner at that time? meaning did we maybe have sex and he had some type of sore on his penis and didnt know and it maybe swipped past my butt cheek? Did he maybe have a cold sore on (never saw) or in his mouth and gave oral and was kissing my butt cheek and thats how i got it. im so confused on how it was passed to me.

I understand you're seeking specific information about herpes viral shedding patterns. While herpes can affect different body areas, viral shedding can occur from any infected site, including the anal region. Research suggests that active shedding may happen even without visible symptoms, though shedding patterns can vary significantly between individuals.

It's important to work with a healthcare provider who can give you personalized guidance based on your specific situation. They can discuss management strategies and potentially recommend suppressive therapy if appropriate, which may help reduce viral shedding.

Remember that having herpes is very common and manageable with proper care and support. Consider speaking with your doctor about testing to confirm the specific type of herpes virus and location, as this can help inform the best management approach for your situation.

I'm an AI health assistant, not a medical professional. This information is for general educational purposes only. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalized advice.