Why herpes isnt a big deal

Even more have HSV-1 , though most people don't realize it. But getting a herpes diagnosis does come with emotional baggage. Herpes Simplex 2—and Why the Difference Matters. Swartz, because the virus can be on parts of the genital area that are still exposed. For people who know they have an infection, taking daily antiviral medication can also cut the odds of spreading it to partners.

In one study from the University of North Carolina, researchers followed couples in which one partner had genital herpes for eight months. All couples were offered condoms, but half of the infected partners took the antiviral drug valacyclovir Valtrex , while the other half took a placebo.

Because of that, says Dr. Johnston, it can be very difficult to identify the source. For others, symptoms can appear as early as six days after infection, and can include pain and blisters in the genital area, pain with urination, and fever, chills, headache, and lymph node swelling. Even less frequently, infants can pick up a herpes infection from skin-to-skin or mouth-to-skin contact with another person.

When you begin to see it as a skin condition, it suddenly seems way less scary. Nice weather today! When I treat it like a normal thing that normal people talk about, it suddenly becomes—you guessed it—normal. Because I speak so candidly about this, other people tend to feel safe speaking about their sexual health too.

I was surprised how many of my friends responded with their own tales, divulging suspicions, diagnoses, and test results with the same openness. In my book, this can only be a good thing. Talking about sexual health is the path toward better sexual health!

Before I got herpes, I was terrified of ever contracting it, for fear no one would ever want to have sex with me again. The wonders of modern technology help with managing risk. Youw immediately connect with an awesome coach via text or over the phone in minutes.

Just click here …. You immediately connect with an awesome coach via text or over the phone in minutes. Jazz Meyer is an open-hearted fellow human, lover of vulnerability, workshop facilitator and blogger, and perpetual student of the universe. Through her writings, she takes great pleasure in delving into conscious community, sexuality, communication, and relationships, and loves to help others to do the same. By Averi Clements. By Amy Horton. By Kate Ferguson.

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