What is Herpes?
Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
It’s actually the most common STI in Australia, but because most people with herpes don’t get symptoms, most people don’t know that they have it.
Are there different types of herpes strains?
When it comes to herpes simplex virus (HSV), there are two strains: HSV-1 and HSV-2.
Both strains can cause outbreaks of sores and blisters on the mouth, genitals, or anus (generally where you came into contact with the virus).
How do you get herpes?
Herpes is spread through skin-to-skin contact, most commonly through kissing, oral sex, penetrative sex, and rimming.
It’s unlikely that you’d get herpes through day-to-day household contact like sharing showers, toilets or washing machines as it usually requires direct skin-to-skin contact. Herpes is more contagious when someone has symptoms, but you can still get herpes from someone who isn’t showing any symptoms (which is why it’s so common).
How can I prevent herpes?
The best way to reduce your risk of getting or passing on genital herpes by avoiding oral, vaginal or anal sex when you or your partner/s have herpes symptoms. It’s also a good idea to minimise other close contact, like kissing or sharing drinking utensils when someone is showing symptoms (ie. has a cold sore).
If you/your partner/s are showing symptoms and choose to have sex, make sure to use condoms and/or a dental dam to reduce direct skin to skin contact.
If you know you have herpes, you may be able to take antiviral medication to help decrease the chances of symptoms occurring as well as passing it on to someone else.
Testing and treatment for herpes
Did you know that around 85% of Australian adults will be infected with a herpes virus at some point in their lives?
Testing for herpes is quick, confidential, and often free, but you need to have symptoms to test for herpes. The test involves taking a swab from any suspected skin ulcers, blisters or cracks.
Testing for herpes is not recommended as a part of routine STI screening in Australia so even if you’re up to date on your STI tests, if you haven’t told your doctor that you have symptoms, you most likely haven’t been tested for herpes.
If you are experiencing symptoms, you can visit your local doctor or sexual health clinic and ask them for a herpes test (remember it can only be tested for if you currently have symptoms).
If you do have herpes, remember that you’re not alone and that it’s the most common STI in Australia. While there’s no cure for herpes, there are antiviral medications that can help ease any symptoms and reduce your risk of passing it on to someone else.
If you have a question around treatment options for herpes, you can speak to a sexual health nurse free today by calling 1800 451 624.
Getting tested for herpes if you’re pregnant
If you’re pregnant and have previously been diagnosed with genital herpes or think you might be experiencing herpes symptoms for the first time, make sure you tell your doctor so they can take all necessary precautions to keep you and your baby safe.
Just diagnosed with herpes and not sure where to start?
Like any STI, getting a herpes diagnosis will feel different for everyone. Whether you feel totally fine about it, are a little concerned or are really freaking out, it’s important to remember that you are not alone.
If you’ve been diagnosed with herpes and need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or speak to a sexual health nurse for free today by calling 1800 451 624. There’s also an incredible herpes community online that is worth exploring, just search #herpestok.
