And what you describe isnt unusual: Most adults have been exposed to oral herpes (HSV-1) and many of us do not remember having a cold sore. Oral-to-genital transmission in the absence of an outbreak is rare, so you dont need to share this bit of news with your future partners.

What happens if HSV 1 is left untreated?

What happens if herpes is not treated? Herpes can be painful, but it generally does not cause serious health problems like other STDs can. Without treatment, you might continue to have regular outbreaks, or they could only happen rarely. Some people naturally stop getting outbreaks after a while.

Can HSV-1 be transmitted through saliva?

Transmission. HSV-1 is mainly transmitted by oral-to-oral contact to cause oral herpes infection, via contact with the HSV-1 virus in sores, saliva, and surfaces in or around the mouth. However, HSV-1 can also be transmitted to the genital area through oral-genital contact to cause genital herpes.