If you’re sexually active with multiple partners, there’s a high risk that you might get herpes. But, the same is true even if you’re monogamous. This is because most people who have herpes don’t even know it since the symptoms don’t always show. They may look like sores on your mouth or genitals, or they may not even appear at all.
Good thing, you don’t have to stop having sex altogether. Read this guide to find out how you can prevent contracting herpes:
1. Avoid Contact with Infected Areas
Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, so the obvious way to prevent it is to not have sex. But, not everyone can be celibate. To be more realistic, just be careful about how you have sex and who you have sex with.
You can get herpes if your genitals come in contact with an infected sore. Use latex condoms and dental dams to help cover infected areas. If you see sores on a partner’s mouth, avoid having oral sex. Don’t worry because you can’t get genital herpes by kissing.
Again, sometimes herpes has no outward signs. There’s no guarantee that you can prevent it, but it’s always wise to do anything you can to reduce the risks.
2. Ask Your Partner About Their Sex Life
Next, don’t be afraid to ask your partner about their sexual history. Ask about how many partners they’ve had, how much sex they regularly have, and (to be honest) if they have had any STDs in the past. If that’s the case, they are more likely to already have genital herpes.
Make sure to explain why you’re asking. This will help you make an informed decision, whether to continue any sexual activity. Asking about their sexual history might be awkward at first, but once you get into the habit, it will become routine.
Still, the best way to avoid herpes is by sticking to one sexual partner. If this is not possible for you, remember that prevention is always better than cure.
3. Ask Your Partner to Take Meds
If your partner already has herpes, they could take a daily dose of medicine to prevent you from getting infected. Although it’s recommended to still use a condom, drugs can reduce viral shedding by up to 95%. The three antiviral drugs approved for herpes treatment are acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir. Consult with a doctor before taking any meds to make sure your partner gets the best treatment.
What most people prefer is to get online herpes treatment. It’s a private way to consult with a medical professional and get the right medicine on time.
Don’t Get Stressed
Herpes is more common than you might think, so don’t get too worried if you happen to contract it. Though there is no cure for herpes, it’s important to know that it’s a manageable condition.
Abstain from sex and wait until your sores and lesions have completely healed. Then, consult with a doctor to check if it’s now safe to enjoy sexual activity. You’ll be glad to know that people who take antiviral drugs daily have no outbreaks at all. Remember: It’s a treatable condition and it shouldn’t stop you from living your life.
