Anyone can be infected by genital herpes, especially if they fail to act in a sexual manner without acting like a porcupine, i.e. very very carefully. Over 500 000 people are diagnosed with genital herpes each year. Ancient myths, perhaps generated from the seductive love god Zeus’ time, still surround this infectious virus and are spread amongst society, but here we lay them to rest.

Myth #1 Once you have herpes, you’ll have itchy rashes forever.

This common thought is not true; some people live with herpes for years without ever knowing it. They simply don’t have recurring symptoms, probably due to high immunity levels. On the other hand, many people often have an outbreak of itchy sores or a rash, on or around the genital area. The itchy rash will disappear again on its own, but there are many supplements and treatments to speed up the process.

Myth #2 You can catch herpes from a toilet seat.

Although there is much debate about this myth, doctors have confirmed that it is highly unlikely that you can catch herpes by simply sitting on a toilet seat that contains the herpes micro-organisms, since these micro-organisms cannot survive very long outside the human body.

Myth #3 It’s impossible to get herpes from oral sex.

Believe it or not, it is possible. Herpes is transferred and spread via skin to skin contact, even if your partner doesn’t have a visible outbreak. It is thus recommended that you use a condom or dental dam, which are rectangular sheets of latex laid over the entire vulva during oral sex.

Myth #4 Your doctor routinely checks you for herpes.

The truth is your doctor doesn’t. In order to have a test done, you have to ask your GP specifically for a herpes test, which is easily done by doing a simple blood test or taking a swab from the affected area.

Myth#5 If your partner has herpes, it means he/she must be cheating on you.

Don’t jump to conclusions on this one and end an otherwise happy relationship just because your boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse has been tested positive. Many people spend years not knowing that they have the virus due to mild or no symptoms at all.

Myth #6 People with herpes can not donate blood.

Not true. People with herpes may donate blood as long as they are feeling healthy and don’t have any other restricted infections. It is important however to state clearly on the questionnaire that you have the virus.

Myth #7 You can’t have sex again if you have herpes.

Of course you can. There are ways of managing outbreaks and ways to protect your partner from contracting the virus. Herpes is not a life sentence to abstinence.

Myth #8 You can’t spread genital herpes to other parts of your body.

Unfortunately you can. By simply touching your genital area and then rubbing your eye for instance, you are spreading the virus. It is therefore vitally important to wash your hands after touching your genital area.

Myth #9 Genital herpes can cause sterility.

Fortunately it can’t. Although evidence shows that people that do have herpes are 2 to 3 times more likely to contract other STD’s or HIV, it is vitally important that you have yourself checked regularly, as most STD’s can be treated, preventing future infertility or sterility.

Myth #10 When you have herpes you know it.

This is the biggest myth of all. 80% of people living with herpes aren’t aware they have it, since symptoms may not appear or are just very subtle. The only way to know for sure if you have herpes is to check your status and have a test done by your local GP.

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