How to prevent catching Herpes

If your partner has told you that they have herpes, well done for not freaking out!  Herpes does not mean someone is a bad person.  However, if you want to continue having sex with them, there are some steps you can take to reduce the chances of you contracting the virus.  This is important, as while there are things that can be done to make herpes more bearable it is incurable.

Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital herpes (this means using a condom every time), because herpes symptoms can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom. However, outbreaks can occur in areas that are not covered by a condom and herpes is passed on by touching and contact not ejaculation.

If you have  herpes then you should abstain from sexual activity with partners when sores or other symptoms of herpes are present, always check before you start getting undressed. We know it’s not sexy and take the spontaneity away – but you don’t want to pass herpes on to someone you love.

It is important to know that even if you do not have any symptoms, you can still infect  your sexual partners.  If you touch an open sore and then do not wash your hands, you can also pass the virus on to anyone you meet: friends, family and colleagues.

To avoid this happening to you, it is always Better2Know whether you have Herpes and a simple test can tell you.  Better2Know tests for herpes in all of its STD testing clinics across the UK.