Genital Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the herpes virus. This sexual disease is usually characterized by the formation of fluid-filled painful blisters in the genital area and effects both men and women alike. There is only one major way to get herpes and that is through sexual transmission, and it is highly recommended that partners use protection before engaging in sexual activity as the signs are sometimes dormant.
Genital Herpes as a term is of Greek origin and refers to the serpent-like patterns that the blisters form. The only way to transmit herpes is by having sexual contact. Herpes can be spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sexual activity. It is not spread by objects, which is a misconception, such as a toilet seat, a doorknob, or sharing hot tubs. It is also not a communicable disease and can not be passed through the air or atmosphere around you.
There are two major types of herpes viruses however only one infects people below the waist. The Herpes simplex virus type 2 infects and causes a lot of pain for someone in the gential area. These outbreaks can cause lesions on the lips or genitals and are recurrent by nature. There are times when the virus seems dormant and there are no signs of soreness or outbreak, but it is still possible to spread the disease.
Babies that are born with herpes really have a hard time dealing with the disease. Neonatal herpes can prove fatal for babies infected. There are long term treatments that suppress the disease and many have seen major improvements by one year of age.
While there is no sure fire cure to genital herpes there is treatment available that will help thwart outbreaks. There is an extract of bovine thymus gland that can be taken to improve immune function and help the body in its fight against the viral infections. Some herbs are also known to help in regards to antiviral medication such as Echinacea and garlic as well as ginseng. Supplements of beta-carotene, and vitamin e are recommended in helping cool an outbreak. There are traditional Chinese medicines that help in terms of outbreaks, as well as Red marine algae taken internally and topically. If those do not help the patient there are several oral medications that can be taken such as Valtrex.
There is only one major way to prevent genital herpes in all forms. This is to avoid any contact with infected people sexually. This is not always the easiest solution and many people are unaware that they are infected.
Use of condoms, spermicidal lubrication, is recommended with all partners no matter what the verbal agreements are. Sexual contact should be avoided completely if your partner has an open sore in the genital area. Touch the affected area is also not recommended. Use of dental dams or squares of non-microwaveable plastic wrap is also recommended. Common sense should dictate sexual health in this modern age, and monogamy is also recommended. Openly discuss these things with your partner and make sure you have safe sex, regardless of how “unccool” it might seems. Genital herpes is no laughing matter and really can be avoided with such ease, it’s a no brainer.
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