Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects millions of people worldwide. While the exact prevalence varies by region, it is estimated that approximately 550 million people worldwide have genital herpes.
Though herpes has historically been stigmatized, it’s essential to recognize how common and manageable the virus is. With proper education and awareness, the stigma around herpes can be reduced.
Let’s debunk some common myths about herpes!
Myth 1: Only Sexually Promiscuous People Get Herpes
One of the most pervasive myths is that herpes only affects people with multiple sexual partners. In reality, herpes simplex virus (HSV) is incredibly common.
There are two types of herpes viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes (cold sores), while HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over two-thirds of the global population under 50 have HSV-1, and approximately 13% have HSV-2.
You can contract herpes from one sexual partner, and it can even be passed on through non-sexual contact, such as kissing (in the case of HSV-1) or sharing personal items like towels or razors.
Myth 2: You Can Always Tell When Someone Has Herpes
Many people believe that herpes is always obvious because of visible symptoms like sores or blisters. However, most people with herpes don’t show symptoms or have mild symptoms they might mistake for other skin conditions. This means someone can carry and transmit the virus without knowing they have it. HSV can be asymptomatic for years, making it difficult to detect without testing.
Myth 3: Condoms Fully Protect Against Herpes
Although using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of contracting herpes, they do not offer complete protection. This is because herpes can infect areas of the skin not covered by a condom, such as the thighs, buttocks, or pubic area. The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, so any area that comes into contact with an infected region can be at risk.
That being said, condoms are still highly effective at reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including herpes, and should be used consistently.
Myth 4: Herpes Affects Your Fertility
A common concern is that having herpes will impact your ability to have children. However, herpes does not affect fertility in men or women. While there is a risk of transmitting the virus to a newborn during childbirth (known as neonatal herpes), this is rare and can be managed with antiviral medication or by opting for a cesarean section if active lesions are present at the time of delivery.
Myth 5: Herpes Is a Sign of Poor Hygiene
Herpes has nothing to do with cleanliness or personal hygiene. The virus is spread through skin-to-skin contact, and anyone can contract it regardless of how clean they are. HSV can enter the body through tiny breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, and it does not discriminate based on hygiene habits.
Myth 6: There Is No Treatment for Herpes
While there is no cure for herpes, there are effective treatments available. Antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks, shorten the duration of symptoms, and lower the chances of transmitting the virus to others. For many people, these medications help manage the condition to the point where outbreaks are rare or mild.
If you or someone you know have concerns about herpes, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider. At NuPharmaLife, we offer confidential telehealth sessions to ensure discreet relief for your condition.
Our licensed professionals can provide you with accurate information and guidance tailored to your needs. We also provide Valacyclovir online prescription with free delivery once you’re granted the prescription by our competent specialists. If you’re also interested in an online prescription for weight loss or online doctor weight loss medication, schedule now!
