The Herp Derps

Herpes is no joke. Herpes simplex one and two are both viruses. Although herpes is indeed an STD, it’s generally only caused sexually by simplex two. In order to contract herpes simplex two, you must have had sexual contact with your partner, who may or may not have known they had it. Herpes does have effects, but some people may not show any, so they would be unaware they even have the disease. If you do end up showing the effects of HSV-2, they will appear about two weeks after contact. They appear in the form of blisters around the vagina, penis, or rectum. The blisters may eventually break, leaving open sores that take around two-three weeks to heal. Flu-like symptoms may also come with HSV-2, including fever and swollen glands.  You may come in contact with HSV-2, and not get any symptoms. In this case, you are more likely to pass it on to your future partner(s). Herpes outbreaks continue throughout your lifetime, and you may have 4-5 within the first year. As the years progress, breakouts tend to lower in amount.  If you leave your herpes untreated, discomfort and inconvenience tend to be the worst that happen, but if you have a weakened immune system, your outbreaks may be more severe. If you leave it untreated, you hold a higher chance of contracting HIV, and spreading HIV and HSV-2. HSV-2 can lead to fatal complications in babies. Woman must avoid contracting HSV-2 during pregnancy, because complications during late pregnancy increase for transmission. Herpes is untreatable; you will live with it forever. However, antiviral medication can help prevent and lower breakouts. Acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir are the medicines in which you can help with your HSV-2.

There is only one, 100% to avoid contracting HSV-2, or any STD/STI, and that is to abstain from sex- anal, vaginal, or oral-in general. If you still wish to have sex, but you want to be safe, you can either be in a monogamous relationship where the partner is tested and you know they don’t have anything… or latex male condoms to protect either male or female from the skin to skin contact. Herpes is not something you want to have to deal with for your entire life. Next time you plan on being with someone, remember to ask them if they’ve been tested. Remember, people lie. If you don’t trust them, or you’re uncomfortable asking… that probably means you should be uncomfortable having sex with the person. If you feel you may have come in contact with HSV-1 or HSV-2, go get tested as soon as possible. Early detection is better detection.

By: Sara Johnson

Sources: http://www.webmd.com/genital-herpes/antiviral-medications-for-genital-herpes

http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/std/stdh2.shtml

http://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/STDFact-Herpes.htm