There's little doubt in my mind that a lot of messages relating to genital herpes are underpinned by fear. On the one hand we tut-tut people who stigmatize those with a sexually transmitted disease but on the other we point out the distressing consequences to people who are disease free but who we view as exhibiting high risk behavior. Maybe it's... Read more
Antiviral medications have proven clinical effectiveness against genital herpes. In this sharepost I provide a snapshot of the three most commonly prescribed medications; Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir (Famvir) and Valacyclovir (Valtrex).
Acyclovir helps to prevent the herpes virus from spreading to other cells. It is used in the... Read more
Should I say I have herpes or should I keep quiet? Without exception, every health professional or health educator will say you have a responsibility and a duty to disclose your condition. It sounds easy in principle, but how do you go about telling someone you have genital herpes? In this sharepost I outline a few of the more common reasons... Read more
Erythema multiforme (EM) refers to a form of skin rash. The term ‘multiforme' refers to the fact that its appearance can vary on the person and may vary from person to person. The main cause is the herpes virus, either as a cold sore, genital herpes, or as a hidden infection.
There are two forms of EM. EM minor, the form associated... Read more
The most common way for babies to become infected with the herpes virus is via the birth canal or vulva. In rare cases the virus can pass to the infant via the placenta, but this is only a risk if the mother gets herpes for the first time during the first trimester.
If the mother-to-be experiences her first outbreak of herpes during the... Read more
