If you've been diagnosed with genital herpes, you've probably done a lot of reading and research. While there may be a lot of information out there, some of it may be conflicting and confusing. Here are some of the common myths about genital herpes. And here is where you'll learn the straight-up facts.
Common Myths:
- If I don't get symptoms, then I don't have genital herpes. This is not true. Actually, most people never have any visible lesions or their signs will be very small.
- There is a cure for genital herpes. Not true. There is currently no cure for genital herpes, but there are antiviral treatments available to help control and manage your symptoms.
- I can get genital herpes from a public restroom. False. Genital herpes can be transmitted or spread through sexual contact or some other direct contact with the virus.
- Cold sores aren't associated with genital herpes. False. You can still get genital herpes from having oral sex with someone who has cold sores.
The Facts:
- Most genital herpes is caused by HSV-2. Yes. However, it is also possible to get it from receiving oral sex from someone who has cold sores (HSV-1).
- Genital herpes can spread from one part of the body to another. Yes. You can spread the virus by touching your genital herpes and then touching another part of the body.
- Genital herpes is a common condition. This is true. Over 45 million people in the U.S. alone have the herpes virus. Genital herpes is one of the most common STDs in the U.S.
- There are a number of treatments available. This is true. There are antiviral pills (like the pill form of acyclovir) as well as prescription ZOVIRAX (acyclovir) Ointment 5%.