The sexually transmitted infection herpes has been grabbing a lot of attention in recent times. However, along with this heightened awareness, there has also been a surge of misinformation and misconceptions about herpes – what it is, how it spreads, and the associated risks. Allow us to clear up the confusion for you.
What exactly is herpes? It’s a prevalent viral infection caused by two similar yet distinct viruses: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
So, what sets them apart? As per Planned Parenthood, HSV-1 is typically responsible for oral herpes, commonly known as cold sores, while HSV-2 leads to genital herpes. Nonetheless, both types can inhabit either region of the body.
For instance, if someone with a cold sore engages in oral sex, there’s a possibility of transmitting HSV-1 to the vaginal or anal area. Similarly, HSV-2 can be contracted orally through oral sex with an individual having genital herpes.
What does herpes look like? Symptoms vary among individuals. Some display no noticeable symptoms, while others do.
Web MD notes that symptoms might appear shortly after infection and can be intense. They may start as small blisters on the buttocks, thighs, or rectal area, which eventually burst, forming raw, painful sores that scab and heal within a few weeks. Besides these indications, you might experience flu-like symptoms, a fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Other symptoms include:
Itching or tingling around the genital or anal regions
Cracked, raw, or reddened areas around the genitals without discomfort, itching, or tingling
Discomfort when urine passes over the sores, particularly in women
Headaches and backaches
Can herpes be mistaken for other conditions? Occasionally, it can resemble other health problems such as vaginal yeast infections, bacterial infections, or even bladder infections. However, the only definitive way to confirm its presence is through a doctor’s diagnosis, either via a blood test or swabbing the sore.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends screening if symptoms are apparent.
How prevalent is it? Herpes can affect anyone, considering its widespread occurrence. According to the CDC, over half of Americans have oral herpes, and about 1 in 6 Americans has genital herpes.
Can you carry the virus unknowingly? As mentioned earlier, not everyone experiences severe symptoms, leading to an unawareness of their carrier status. Experts estimate that up to 80 percent of herpes-infected individuals remain oblivious to their infection.
So, are outbreaks constant for those with herpes? While the infection manifests as outbreaks, which can recur multiple times in a year, their frequency can differ. An individual with genital herpes may experience four to five outbreaks annually, while someone with oral herpes typically has fewer than one.
Is it curable? Unfortunately, herpes cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Antiviral medications like Valtrex or Famciclovir can help prevent or shorten outbreaks.
How does herpes spread? Planned Parenthood clarifies that skin-to-skin contact with an infected person is the primary mode of transmission for herpes. Here’s a specific detail: Ejaculation is not necessary for herpes transmission – it’s about direct skin contact.
Furthermore, herpes is most contagious when sores are open and moist, as fluid from the blisters can easily transmit the virus. However, herpes can also spread when there are no visible sores, and the skin appears normal. This is referred to as asymptomatic shedding.
Also worth noting: Herpes is not transmitted via blood. Nevertheless, a pregnant mother can pass it on to her newborn.
Do condoms provide protection? Despite discussions around the role of condom usage in herpes prevention, it’s important to understand that condoms do not offer foolproof protection. While they can lower the risk, as herpes transmission relies on skin-to-skin contact, condoms are not always a guaranteed safeguard.
Are African Americans more susceptible to this STI? This isn’t meant to instill fear or spread misinformation, but similar to HIV and other STIs, African Americans have disproportionately higher rates of herpes. A controversial 2010 CDC study indicated that 48 percent of black women tested positive for HSV-2. Moreover, herpes can increase the risk of contracting HIV.
You can reduce your risk by practicing safer sex, engaging in open and honest conversations with your sexual partners, or even choosing abstinence. The decision rests with you.
