bicycling and herpes

By cycle57 Friday, August 21, 2009

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I am a 57 year of woman who contracted herpes from her partner about a year ago. My initial outbreak was severe and painful. I had no other outbreak for 7 months, but in the last 4 months I have had six outbreaks with little time inbetween them. The episodes last two weeks. These outbreaks continue in spite of taking daily acyclovir I began bicycling more about that time (the weather improved), only cycling when I was inbetween episodes. I am wondering if the bicycling and rubbing on the seat can cause a new episode. Some of my rides have been quite strenuous and I was exhausted afterward. Can lots of physical exercise cause an out break? I love bicycling and I hate the idea of having to give it up!

Comments (3) | Add comment

Morningsong

8/22/09 8:31am

I'm not a doctor, but I believe that exercise increases the likelihood of outbreaks. When I have worked out in the past, I've had more outbreaks, even while taking Valtrex. At the moment I don't have any advice for you, for I haven't found a way around this. Just thought I would share..

swc

2/22/10 10:06am

I was wondering if you ever received a reply to this as I could have written the exact same thing.

Disclosing Herpes

7/ 1/10 12:04am

I am 59 years ago and was infected with HSV-2 four years ago. Last year (on Valtrex), I began to have monthly outbreaks as well every time I rode my bicycle. Before that, I had no problems with being physically active. In addition to HSV-2, I was recently diagnosed with lichens sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that destroys the vagina. It also activates the HSV-2. Herpes can further weaken the immune system if infected after menopause when estrogen levels drop.

bicycling and herpes

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