Genital Herpes - Some Facts You Should Know

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, (STD), caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2. Signs and symptoms include painful blisters and sores, not necessarily in the genital area but sometimes also around the mouth and back. A recent statistic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 16 percent of the U.S. population between the ages of 14 and 49 are affected.  Some preventitive measures you can take are to really take a good look at your sexual partner. Look for any blisters or open sores. If so, avoid touching the skin in the infected area for about two weeks, or until it heals. Herpes doesn't discriminate between hetero/homo or bisexual populatons.  Herpes is spread by close contact.  Infection commonly occurs through mucous membranes, where the skin is thinner or through small breaks in the skin from shaving cuts, pimples, or scratches.  Conversation and honesty are paramount in any relationship.  There is no cure for genital herpes, so be careful.  Use barrier methods of protection during sex. This is especially important if your partner is having an outbreak (or has recently had one). If you've been intimate without protection, see your gynecologist/dermatologist and get tested. Herpes can pose dangers for women who might want to become pregnant later on in life.  Prescription pills (Valtrex, Famvir, or Zovirax) can help prevent outbreaks if taken at the first sign of pain or tingling.

Here's Your Healthy Tip of the Day:  Use common sense, precaution and if you have genital herpes, act ethically.  Genital herpes is more common that you would think and because there is quite a bit of ignorance pertaining to genital herpes, it is spread more than necessary.