Viral shedding is a term used to describe the process of the virus traveling up the nerves to the skin right before causing blisters to erupt. Shedding is also called the prodromal phase. This prodromal phase (viral shedding) can happen without ever showing signs of an active breakout, known as asymptomatic shedding.
Those who have suffered frequent herpes breakouts recognize the viral shedding phase as when headaches, backaches, tingling, and skin sensitivity occur. It's also when emotions may be a little harder to control. Unreasonable impatience or sudden tears may be an issue, which is usually explained away by the appearance of blisters. But, sometimes, the blisters never appear. All of the signs are there for a breakout that never evolves. However, viral shedding can be contagious while herpes is en route to the surface, whether or not blisters ever appear.
Additionally, blisters never appearing doesn't mean they aren't there. Herpes blisters can arise inside the vagina and the rectum. So, whenever you feel you're coming down with herpes symptoms, even if you can't see any lesions, avoid being physically intimate with others until the symptoms or feelings pass.
Not everyone has noticeable symptoms, and no one can ever be 100% sure they won't accidentally pass herpes on to someone else. Even if you have no signs of viral shedding (aches, tingling or itching, headaches, backaches, or moodiness), you may still pass herpes on to your partner. You can be fine one day and have blisters pop up the next. So, never take for granted that what you think is just a random ache or pain isn't herpes. Self-check often and be responsible about being intimate with others.
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