Introduction
Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection that causes herpetic sores, which are painful blisters filled with fluid that can break open and ooze fluid often spread by skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by two types of viruses - Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) that usually spreads with the virus in saliva in the skin forming cold sores and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2) that usually spread by sexual contact and can cause genital herpes. There is no cure for genital herpes but some medicine can ease symptoms and lower the risk of infection. Taking preventive measures like the use of a condom during sexual intercourse can help to prevent the infection of the herpes virus.
Ways to prevent herpes
There is no permanent cure for herpes simplex but we can reduce our risk of contracting HSV infection by avoiding physical contact with someone who has a cold sore. The physical contact can also be prevented by:
- Using a condom every time we have sex may protect us from the herpes virus if it covers the infected area.
- We should ask our partners if they ever had a sexually transmitted disease in the past. In most cases, people are not sure if they have ever had been contracted genital herpes. People with a history of STDs are more likely to develop genital herpes. It may be an awkward scenario to confirm with the partner, but it is very important to ask and be honest with each other to avoid transmission of infection.
- Sexual history
We should ask our partners about their history with any STDs and whether their sexual history involves multiple partners; such a situation makes them more vulnerable to the spread of infection with the herpes virus.
- Limit the number of sexual partners
It is safe to have fewer sexual partners in our lifetime, as this will likely protect us from herpes virus.
- We should avoid sexual contact with herpes-infected people.
If our partner is infected with herpes, with sores on their genitalia, then we should always abstain from sex when symptoms are present. Remember, in some cases herpes, infection does not show symptoms and it is hard to spot the sore.
- Avoid oral sex with a person having cold sores
In the case of oral herpes, sores develop on the mouth area and the infection can be passed on to the genitals through oral sex.
- Getting tested for genital herpes.
Getting a herpes test before getting involved in sexual activity can help us and our partners to avoid the spread of infection.
- Don't have sex while intoxicated
People under the influence of alcohol and drugs should avoid having sex with their partners as they tend to be less careful about practising safer sex and they often regret it later.
- Prefer having sex with a single partner
The only way to be 100% sure that we won't get a sexually transmitted disease is to have just one sex partner who has no history of STDs.
- Try alternate forms of sexual intimacy
If someone does not prefer monogamy, they can try alternate forms of sexual intimacy to enjoy their sex life with the same partner for a longer period. This could greatly reduce the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease.
- Using a condom
Condoms, when used correctly every time during sexual activity, can significantly reduce the risk of contracting genital herpes. However, it's important to note that a condom only protects the area it covers.
Conclusion
Once people have herpes, it becomes a lifelong condition. The herpes infection can lead to outbreaks resulting in symptoms, but people also have times when they have no symptoms. If a person is infected with herpes, then they should take antiviral medications to reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks and opt for possible ways to prevent infection with oral herpes and genital herpes such as by using a condom during any sexual activity. It is always advisable to look for safer sex options because it is important to take necessary precautions since this infection doesn’t show any signs or symptoms. Health insurance can provide coverage for antiviral medications and medical care necessary for managing herpes outbreaks, as well as preventive measures like regular screenings and consultations to ensure optimal health and management of the lifelong condition.