Genital Herpes – An Active Sex Life is Still Possible

When hearing the diagnosis of herpes simplex 2, genital herpes you may feel shock, anger, and depression.  Sooner or later you will realize that your sex life will never by the same again.  But no, you do not have to live like a monk and enter a monastery.  Sex can still be fulfilling and pleasurable as long as you can follow a few guidelines’.

Herpes Symptoms                                                              

The first symptom may be a tingling, burning or numbness of the genital area.  This will be followed with blisters, which after breaking open, will excrete a fluid.  Although usually found on the genital these can also appear on the anus, buttocks inner thighs and penis. Woman may also have problems with her urinary system.  The possibility of frequent urinary infections is a secondary problem with those women having chronic and frequent herpes infections.

Types of Treatment

There are medications that are effective if taken immediately upon onset. Ignoring the symptoms will only make the outbreak more severe and set you up for further episodes of genital herpes. The first infection is usually the most virulent and painful.  Over the counter pain medications are advised. There are a few excellent remedies available on line, natural products that work well.

Sex and Living with Your Infection

Be selective with your sexual partners, and be honest.  As you still can infect a partner between outbreaks the use of condoms during all outbreaks is rule number one.  While condoms are not 100% effective they are still the best and only protection we have at the present time.

When Not to Have Sex

Never have intercourse during an active episode.  During these times there are other means of mutual satisfaction.  Masturbation, either together or on each other, may be found to be pleasurable. Sex toys, such as vibrators can be used as a substitute to intercourse.  There are as many agreeable scenarios’ as your imagination will allow. Always wash handswith soap and hot water after participating in any type of sex. Genital herpes does not herald the end of your sex life.

Factors That Increase Infections

There are some situations that make it more likely that one will develop contracting genital herpes.  Frequent, multiple partners without the protection of a condom come first.  Woman for some reason contract genital herpes more easily than men and often have a more difficult time with the disease.

An outbreak of genital herpes can be triggered by a number of situations.  Stress of any kind can set you up for an outbreak. Having the disease is stressful enough.  Professional counseling and joining a support group may help you handle the overwhelming feelings you may be having.

What You Can Do to Lesson Outbreaks

Your immune system has been compromised by the very fact that you now carry a chronic disease. If you want to limit the number of genital herpes attacks you will take care of yourself.  Get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet and get yourself a regular exercise problem.  You never envisioned herpes as part of your life, but now that you do have it, there is a way of living with it successfully and having a fulfilling life.