FAQs

How can I protect myself from Herpes and what are the symptoms of the infection?

Answer

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the Herpes Simplex virus.

There are two types:
• Type 1 commonly causes the 'cold sores' people can get around the lips and mouth.

• Type 2 is most commonly the cause of genital herpes, usually found around the genitals or anus, although both Type 1 and Type 2 can occur in either area.

What happens?

The herpes virus is transmitted by close skin contact, usually during vaginal, anal or oral sex.

It can occur if there is skin contact without penetrative sex and, although the virus is most usually passed on when you have an outbreak of blisters, it can sometimes be passed on when someone infected with the virus doesn't have any sign of herpes.

The first signs of an infection may be tingling, painful or itchy blisters on the genital area. Flu like symptoms may also be present.

You should avoid sexual contact from the first hint of an infection and until the skin has returned to normal.

Once you have the virus, it lies dormant in the body and can later cause further outbreaks. It's possible to pass it on between outbreaks but studies show that regularly using condoms can reduce this risk.

It's worth noting that 15-20 per cent of adults have evidence of infection with genital herpes, even though at least 70 per cent will have no memory of ever having had an outbreak.

Herpes does not affect fertility; however women should advise their doctor if they have an outbreak at the time of childbirth, as they may require a caesarean section to avoid passing it on to the baby.

http://www.ahmf.com.au/herpes/default.htm