Herpes Does Not Have to be a GameChanger

Herpes Does Not Have to be a GameChanger

Let’s talk about genital herpes (HSV). Maybe you are reading this blog because you were recently diagnosed with herpes or you have a previous history of herpes, either way, I want you to know that herpes does not have to be a game-changer. Two viruses cause genital herpes: herpes simplex virus type 2 and herpes simplex virus type 1.

Did you know:

• Herpes can be transmitted with oral and genital sex
• There are over 18.6 million cases of HSV-2 and 572,000 new cases in the United States according to cdc.gov
• People with herpes can have children
• You can have herpes and not have any symptoms

How Can I Find Out If I Have Herpes?

There is a simple blood test to screen for HSV. If you are currently having symptoms your provider may get a sample of fluid (culture) from the site of the symptoms (outbreak) to send to a lab. When someone is having an outbreak, collecting the culture is the best way to find out if the outbreak is caused by HSV because a blood test collected during an outbreak can give a false-negative result. Your body needs enough time to make antibodies which can take several weeks after an outbreak to be detected in a blood test. If your results for the bloodwork are positive for HSV that means that you have been exposed to the virus at some point in your life. If you are not currently having symptoms there is no way to know when you were exposed. If your test is negative for HSV the virus was not detected at the time of your test. You can still come in contact with HSV from a future partner. 

How Is Herpes Treated?

Currently, there is no cure for HSV. However, there is a medication that can reduce the number of outbreaks you may experience and shorten the duration of an outbreak. If you have been diagnosed with HSV contact your healthcare provider to ask about treatment options. Taking medication to prevent outbreaks (suppression) may reduce the risk of you spreading the virus to a negative partner. Everyone does not choose to take medication daily. Some people choose to take medication only during an outbreak (episodic) to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and some people choose to not take medication at all because they rarely have symptoms, or their symptoms are mild. Speak to your healthcare provider about what might work for you because the choice is yours to make. 

Can I Have Sex?

The simple answer is yes. Most people that I counsel have a hard time thinking about sex after being told that they have herpes. Like the title of this blog states “herpes does not have to be a game-changer”. 

Do I have to Tell My Partners?

My advice is to speak to every new partner about possible exposure to a sexually transmitted infection and get tested together. This is not always possible so everyone who chooses to have sex should use condoms or barriers to reduce the risk of exposure to infection. If you are taking medication for suppression this will reduce the chance of you having outbreaks, therefore, reducing partner transmission. If you are having an outbreak or having symptoms do not have sex during that time. 

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about sexual health, STDs, and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website, or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing, or other professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the blog owner and do not represent those of people or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with within a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated.

If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment immediately.