The Complexities of Herpes Simplex

By Martin A. David martin.david@hqpublications.com Pharmavita Columnist October 19, 2004

Herpes is no longer the disease whose name dare not be spoken. In fact, if you have herpes, you are over 45 million people in this country who join in your suffering.

It's true that herpes simplex 2, also known as genital herpes, was once a source of great shame to all who contracted it. People who found out that they had herpes simply stopped dating. Well the world has come to terms with this disease and modern medicine has made it possible for herpes simplex sufferers to live normal lives.

Finding Herpes

It's still important not to ignore the disease or to be in denial about its seriousness. Unfortunately, there is no genital herpes cure. Medical scientists are working on developing a herpes vaccine, but it is still a long way off.

If you notice a sign of herpes, such as a burning sensation or rash on the male genitals, or vaginal itching, you need to see a doctor for a herpes blood test. The herpes simplex virus can remain dormant inside your body. Herpes outbreaks usually strike in times of stress or poor physical condition.

The Dangers of Herpes, and Playing it Safe

It's important to avoid sexual contact during a herpes outbreak. Herpes and oral sex is a particularly dangerous combination. Another troubling mixture is herpes and pregnancy. If there is a herpes outbreak during the final stages of pregnancy, doctors will frequently choose to deliver the child through caesarean section surgery.

Remember, life is not over because you have herpes. Join one of hundreds of herpes support groups available, and learn how other sufferers cope with the disease. Now that people are no longer ashamed of suffering from herpes, there are even herpes personals through which people with the condition can meet each other.

About the Author
Martin A. David consults as a Senior Technical Writer for a number of Silicon Valley firms. He is also a translator, specializing in Danish, French and Spanish literary works. He has written numerous feature articles for publications including the Los Angeles Times. He has also published a novel, and a non-fiction book in the area of dance. Martin earned his B.A. in Liberal Arts from Brooklyn College in his native New York. He currently chairs the Santa Clara Cultural Advisory Commission in Santa Clara, California.