How can genital herpes be avoided?
Avoiding oral, anal, and vaginal sex is the most effective method to prevent the spread of herpes virus and keep the herpes infection at bay. When all preventive measures are taken, they are most effective. No single measure can guarantee protection against all STIs, including genital herpes infection. The guidelines for avoiding genital herpes are identical to those for avoiding other sexually transmitted infections. [9]
Abstain from sexual activity or limit your sexual contact to one companion who is not a carrier of the disease. However, you can engage in sexual activity if you take the following precautions against sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
Examine for STIs
Not only should you undergo STI testing, but so should your intimate partner. Before engaging in sexual activity, partners should discuss the results of STI testing with one another.
Apply contraceptives
When engaging in sexual activity, using a condom is one of the best methods to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as genital herpes. Use a condom before the penis touches the anus, vagina, or mouth, as a male does not need to ejaculate to contract or transmit herpes. Some individuals may confuse the recommendation to use condoms with other birth control methods such as birth control shots, implants, pills, or diaphragms, which do not provide protected sex and therefore do not prevent STIs. Use or insist that your partner uses latex condoms to prevent the spread of herpes simplex virus.
Observe monogamy
Having protected sex with only one companion can also reduce the risk of contracting genital herpes or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Attempt to remain faithful to your partner in order to remain secure and free of herpes infection by undergoing routine HSV testing.
Not to boorish
Douching can remove some of the beneficial microorganisms in the vagina that actually protect against herpes infection. Douching may increase the likelihood of contracting herpes.
Limit the number of sexual companions you have.
Limiting the number of your sexual companions can be of great assistance in preventing the spread of herpes virus. Additionally, avoid engaging in sexual activity with anyone who is infected with genital herpes.
Do not use alcohol or narcotics
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or abusing drugs can increase hazardous behavior, which may increase the likelihood of exposure to herpes infections and sexual assault.
Prenatal safeguards
If you are expectant and suffering from genital herpes, you should inform your physician. Try to undergo appropriate testing for genital herpes and a thorough examination by a gynecologist. In order to prevent an outbreak of herpes, the doctor may recommend that expectant women begin taking antiviral medications during their third trimester. The physicians will also likely recommend a cesarean section to reduce the risk of virus transmission to the newborn.
