You’ve seen the commercials with healthy, spandex-clad people running around, climbing mountains, and kayaking over rocks and waterfalls. Nothing, not even the presence of genital herpes, is going to get these people down! While the drug companies who offer treatment for genital herpes might paint a nice, vibrant picture, the reality is that genital herpes is far from fun. As founder and CEO of getSTDtested.com, an online, confidential STD testing company, Tracey Powell thinks that people should be aware of their risks and understand the reality of living with herpes. In fact, Powell finds himself constantly stressing the importance of educating people about the ins and outs of this disease that has affected over 45 million people throughout the country. The following are some facts that Powell believes everyone should know about herpes (and tips on how you can protect yourself from it):
People with herpes don’t always experience outbreaks
It is a common misconception that people with genital herpes are bound to know that they’re infected. But, it’s actually quite possible to be infected with herpes but not experience any symptoms or outbreaks. Additionally, not all herpes outbreaks are as painful or obvious as others; some people with the disease might only notice a blister or two, whereas others might find themselves overwhelmed by flare-ups. Finally, while some might believe herpes sores to be wholly recognizable, minor cases can often be mistaken for insect bites or allergic reactions. Therefore, it is fully possible to experience a herpes outbreak but not recognize it as such.
Herpes can be painful
Although some might regard a genital herpes outbreak as more of an inconvenience than an agonizing occasion, genital herpes can actually be quite painful. Those diagnosed with genital herpes can often experience multiple outbreaks within the first year, though such recurrences tend to decrease in frequency over time.
Herpes can be transmitted even in the absence of an outbreak
Many people hold the false assumption that genital herpes can only be transmitted from one person to another when the infected party is experiencing an outbreak. In reality, the herpes virus can be released and passed along from skin that does not contain any sores. It is also possible for a person with oral herpes to give his partner genital herpes via oral sex. Even if the person performing oral sex does not have genital herpes, it is still possible to transmit the infection to the genital area of the partner, resulting in genital herpes for the recipient.
There is no cure for herpes
Like the commercials say, there is currently no known cure for genital herpes, which means that once a person is infected with the disease, he will have it for life. On the other hand, there is treatment that can shorten and prevent herpes outbreaks for those who are infected. Daily suppressive therapy is also available for herpes patients who tend to suffer from outbreaks, and such treatment can reduce a person’s risk of transmitting the disease to a sexual partner.
Since herpes is a disease that is rather easy to pass along from one person to the next, people need to take special care to protect themselves from infection. Make sure that you are aware of your sexual health and reduce your risk by talking to a new partner about getting tested before engaging in any sexual contact. Remember, there is no cure for herpes and it is not something that can be taken back, so it’s important to take all the necessary steps to protect yourself.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
