Genital Herpes: Dealing Day to Day
Reviewed By:
Timothy Yarboro, M.D.
- Practice safe sex
When used consistently and correctly, condoms can reduce your risk of transmitting genital herpes, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases. For vaginal sex and anal sex, a male latex condom should be used. The condom should be on after the penis is erect and before the penis makes contact with the partner. A female polyurethane condom can also provide some protection during vaginal sex.
The male partner should also wear a male latex condom when receiving oral sex. When a partner is performing oral sex on a female partner, a dental dam should be used on the female partner. A dental dam is a flat piece of latex that can be placed over the vagina to act as a barrier.
However, condoms and dental dams are not 100 percent effective in preventing the spread of genital herpes because sores can occur outside the area protected by the condom.
- Know the signs and symptoms of genital herpes
Some people with genital herpes don't have symptoms, but you should be aware of what to look for. If you or your partner develops any herpes-related symptoms, such as the appearance of sores on the mouth, penis, vagina, buttocks or anal area, you should abstain from sex and contact a doctor immediately.
- Avoid blaming yourself or others
Genital herpes is not curable. Pointing fingers and contemplating what-ifs will not change your situation. The sooner you accept your diagnosis, the closer you will come to healing emotionally and moving on with your life.
- Remember that you are not alone
It is important to remind yourself that you are not the only person with genital herpes. There are millions of people experiencing similar symptoms and emotions.
- Seek additional support if necessary
Although genital herpes is a common and manageable condition, living with herpes can be distressing, inconvenient and, in some cases, painful. The period after diagnosis may be an especially emotional time. It's common to experience feelings of shame and fear. In addition, you may want to get advice about how to broach the subject with any future sexual partners. Therefore, you may benefit from seeking counseling or attending a support group.
- Take steps to reduce your number of outbreaks
There are many things you can do to lower the number of outbreaks you experience. Frequency of herpes outbreaks may be reduced through stress management, getting plenty of rest, exercise and proper nutrition. Ask your doctor for other recommendations. For example, you may be a candidate for suppressive antiviral medication.
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