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If I am infected Herpes Simplex 1, does my next spouse have to be as well?

By Anonymous October 6, 2011 - 5:41pm
 
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I am a junior in high school & have recently been informed that I have Herpes Simplex Type 1. Now, I know there is no cure for the virus but it has completely changed my entire highschool year. I am extremely unhappy & have no one or any idea of how to help myself. My mother does know I have the virus but isn't very supportive of my emotional being. I don't have many friends & the one I do have, has a boyfriend who she is with most of the time also. I have pushed many male friends away now that I know it's nearly impossible for me to be in a relationship & also because I do not want to risk anyone's elses health. Also multiple students at my high school are gossiping saying I have STDS instead (which I do not). I am becoming extremely depressed & wondering if I should seek professional help. Not only that, I am wondering if in the future will I have to be in a relationship with herpes as well?

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Guide

I am glad that you realize this is not a very serious condition.

As I mentioned in the previous post, you are most contagious when you have a cold sore. During that time, avoid kissing and oral sex. Do not share eating or drinking utensils. (This is a good idea for everyone at any time).

Here is some advice from the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center:
"Like other herpes viruses, including chicken pox and mono, the herpes simplex virus stays with us for life. Although you may not always be able to prevent outbreaks, there are some self-help measures that may reduce the frequency of recurrences. When in the sunlight, use a sunscreen with a minimum protection factor of 15 or a preparation containing benzoic acid. Practice stress management techniques such as inhalation exercises or progressive relaxation. Exercise regularly and get adequate rest."

If you want to read more, check it out: http://www.mckinley.illinois.edu/handouts/herpes_simplex/herpes_simplex.html

Maryann

November 1, 2011 - 1:19pm
Guide

Hi,
Take a deep breath and calm down. Herpes simplex virus-1 or HSV-1 causes cold sores Cold sores are small and somewhat painful blisters that usually show up on or around a person's lips. But they don't just show up on the lips. They can sometimes be inside the mouth, on the face, or even inside or on the nose. These places are the most common, but sores can appear anywhere on the body, including the genital area.
Genital herpes isn't typically caused by HSV-1; it's caused by another type of the herpes simplex virus called herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) and is spread by sexual contact. But even though HSV-1 typically causes sores around the mouth and HSV-2 causes genital sores, these viruses can cause sores in either place.
HSV-1 is very common — if you have it, chances are you picked it up when you were a kid. Most people who are infected with the herpes simplex virus got it during their preschool years, most likely from close contact with someone who has it or getting kissed by an adult with the virus.
Although a person who has HSV-1 doesn't always have sores, the virus stays in the body and there's no permanent cure.
You are contagious and can spread the virus to someone ONLY when you have a cold sore. The virus spreads through direct contact — through skin contact or contact with oral or genital secretions (like through kissing). Although the virus is most contagious when a sore is present, it can still be passed on even if you can't see a sore. HSV-1 can also be spread by sharing a cup, eating utensils, or lip balm or lipstick with someone who has it.
In addition, if you or your partner gets cold sores on the mouth, the herpes simplex virus-1 can be transmitted during oral sex and cause herpes in the genital area.
You do not have to isolate yourself. Educate your friends and put an end to the nasty false rumors. I hope that all this information helps you understand what is happening in your body. It is not as serious as you have perceived it to be.
Take care,
Maryann

October 6, 2011 - 6:06pm
EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous (reply to Maryann Gromisch RN)

I do now understand it as not as serious as I have taken it but when it comes to future relationships, what if I were to get into a relationship with someone who's not infected? Would it be possible for things to workout without me infected them as well? What precautions could I take?

November 1, 2011 - 10:46am
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