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 put on your partner
after his penis is erect and before his penis makes contact with
any part of your body. A female polyurethane condom can also
provide protection during vaginal sex.
Your partner should also wear a male latex condom when receiving
oral sex. When your partner is performing oral sex on you, or you
are performing oral sex on a female partner, a dental dam should be
used. A dental dam is a flat piece of latex that can be placed over
the vagina to act as a barrier.
However, it is important to note that 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 develop any
herpes-related symptoms ‑- such as the appearance of sores on
the mouth, penis or vagina ‑- 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 the
same 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. 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 more recommendations.
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