Herpes Posts Archives - Fact Not Fiction

Protecting Yourself From Herpes

factnotfiction — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 17:08:57 +0000

It’s sad but true. More than half of all sexually active people will have some form of an STI in their lifetime. The World Health Organization recently revealed that more than 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 (that’s 67% of the world’s population) have one particular virus, herpes.

So what’s the deal? Let’s get to know the two types of herpes:

HSV-1, which can cause those pesky and often painful cold sores on your mouth and is primarily transmitted through mouth to mouth contact. (This is the most common type.)
HSV-2, which manifests itself as sores in the genital and anal region and is transmitted through sexual acts where skin touches skin.

Both categories of herpes may cause itching, pain, discharge, and flu-like symptoms, but often knowing whether you or someone else has herpes can be tricky because many people don’t show any symptoms at all.

That’s why it’s so important to KNOW YOUR STATUS. If you are sexually active, get tested regularly. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be detected through blood tests. Herpes is easy to diagnose and treat with anti-viral drugs. There is no cure, though.

So, how can you avoid getting herpes?

Avoid having vaginal, anal or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances: stay in a monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and knows their status, and use latex condoms. But be aware: herpes outbreaks can occur in areas that are NOT covered by a condom, so condoms may not fully protect you.

Herpes can be controlled and managed easily as long as you stay aware of your health and the health of your sexual partners. Be smart and don’t be afraid to keep an open dialogue with your sexual partner. If you need free condoms, click here to find a health center near you.

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Did You Know?

factnotfiction — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 19:05:50 +0000

Syphilis can put you at risk for infection of other STDs, including HIV.

If left untreated, the symptoms will disappear, but the infection stays in the body and can cause damage to the brain, heart, and nervous system, and even death. That’s why it’s so important to get tested if you’re sexually active – and to use condoms.

The post Did You Know? appeared first on Fact Not Fiction.

Separating Fact From Fiction: Herpes

factnotfiction — Thu, 08 May 2014 16:22:49 +0000

Any skin-to-skin touching with infected areas can pass along herpes, even if the person who has herpes doesn’t have any visible sores or other symptoms. Some get blisters or sores. Once you have herpes, you have it for the rest of your life.

The post Separating Fact From Fiction: Herpes appeared first on Fact Not Fiction.

HPV + Herpes FYI

factnotfiction — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 20:00:45 +0000

HPV and Herpes can be transmitted via sores or warts and by contact with parts of the genitals not covered by a condom. When making sexual choices, know that even when using condoms or dental dams, you may still be at a risk of transmitting or contracting these infections.

For advice on how to heighten your safety levels against these infections, check this out: https://bit.ly/18KEenU

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