Questions about herpes

[Jaqui Lynne]

Herpes and the population.

Several years ago when I discovered that I, too, had been infected, (thank you wifey #1, bitch), I had come across a documentary about Isreali scientific research on the matter. Here are some of their details:

1 out of every 3 people in the world are infected in one way or another.

(Cold sores are a variety of herpes simplex, and if you like that bj, it is quite likely to get your little case if she has one...most people don't think of that. Even kissing someone with a cold sore can expose you to the virus. And since it is a virus, it can mutate...which means even if you only have an occaisional cold sore, over time it can mutate to the genital variety.)

Most of those that have it, don't know they have it because they don't always show any outward symptoms... So, even after several years with a partner, it is possible that some symptom may eventually occur...and as a surprise for both partners. Just think of what that would mean...as one questions about who is cheating on whom...

75% of all people over the age of 65 have it, according to their study.

So, the point is if you love someone enough, it may not matter as much as you may be horrified of it. Mine has been under control for many years without drugs. Stress brings it out and I suffer an outbreak only once every year or so.

When I was in a most stressful relationship many years ago, I would have had one every other month...it is no longer the situation.

ONE MORE THING: At the time of this report, the researchers discovered that they could make a salve from the fore-skins of newly circumsized male babies, that when applied to the sore, had healing tendencies. The thought was that the new, strong cells from that skin would help to stave off the sores. And it worked.

Just enjoy life, even with it's ups and downs, because some things are not as tragic as we make them. Even if you have safe-sex....eventually you and your partner are going to want the real thing and be able to completely feel one another.

jacqui lynne

 

[Arden]

I must applaud Jacqui for having the courage to speak up on this topic. Chances are that a large percentage of the registered users at Lit carry the Herpes virus in one form or another because this is a sexually-oriented community... and we like sex Few talk about it, though because they don't want to be rejected as a potential friend or lover based on a medical condition. There's nothing wrong with getting to know someone first, before telling them because you don't know which direction a relationship may go. But you must be responsible if you make the decision to become sexually active.

If you know that you carry the virus, especially genital Herpes (which is not always visible to the eye) I can't stress how important it is to give your potential lover a choice to opt out before having sex. Informed consent is a must. If you've been in a relationship with someone that carries the virus, this too should be disclosed prior to having sex. Like Jacqui stated, this virus can lay dormant for years before producing lesions, but it can still be transmitted. Many carry the virus and never have any symptoms.

Also~ many partners who are, or have been in long term relationships with a carrier of the virus may not have used protection. That is their choice to make. Most rely on knowing the early warning symptoms that preceed an outbreak, and abstain from sex during that time. But virus shedding can occur at any time, not only before and during an outbreak. I guess what I'm getting at here is this... ask your partner about their sexual history before jumping into bed with them. If they hesitate before replying, you might think twice.

Be proactive... take care of yourself.