For many people with herpes and for their partners, concerns about transmitting the virus can put a damper on sex. This doesn't need to be the case. Following a few safety guidelines can eliminate some of this stress and make outbreaks a minor inconvenience when they occur. Below is a list of tips to keep in mind if you are concerned about protecting yourself from herpes or protecting your partner.
To protect yourself from herpes:
Using condoms properly during sex will reduce the risk of contracting herpes (or any other STD). But remember that an outbreak can occur in a location that is not protected by a condom. To protect yourself against oral herpes, do not kiss a partner with a cold sore. And certainly do not let a person with a cold sore perform oral sex.
If you are with a new partner or one who has herpes, inspect your partner (Make it fun!) before sexual activity, and stop if you notice any unusual bumps, sores or skin irritations. If you get to know your partner's body well, you will know his or her normal skin appearance and can easily tell if something looks unusual.
With proper care, there is very little risk to people in casual contact with someone who has herpes. (Contrary to old urban folklore, there are no documented cases of herpes being contracted from a toilet seat.)
If you or your partner has herpes:
Never have sex during an outbreak because this is when herpes is highly contagious. Even if a condom would cover a sore, there is a high risk that herpes virus is present in surrounding locations that remain unprotected. Statistics show that there is a 75% chance of contracting the virus during an episode. Keep any intimate contact well away from the affected area.
Do not share toiletry items, such as soap, washcloths or towels, which can harbor live virus on their wet surfaces. If you share a bed, wear clothing that covers the outbreak area (like exercise or bicycle shorts) to prevent accidental contact during snuggling and sleeping.
People with herpes must be careful to wash their hands every time they touch an outbreak area. This includes after going to the bathroom, showering and bathing. A sore should not be touched unless absolutely necessary. Never touch it with a hand that has a cut or open wound. Also never touch your eyes, nose, ears or mouth with a hand that has just touched an affected area. It is possible to spread the virus to other areas of your own body; sensitive membrane areas and broken skin are especially vulnerable.
Go To Page: 1 2
