Herpes is a common virus that many people can get. However, as common as it is, not many people know the actual truth of it. Many people create stigmas and rumors about it that scare people who may have it. To help you learn the truth, here are the myths and the real facts about herpes.
The Symptoms Are Obvious
One of the most common myths about herpes is that you would know if you had herpes because the symptoms are apparent. The symptoms of herpes that people will think of are herpes lesions on the genitals or oral cold sores. However, the truth is that only 1 in 5 people have visible signs of herpes, which leaves a vast number of people that do not even have symptoms. The virus stays dormant in most people, which means most people will not realize that they have it. However, there are visible symptoms for it that could eventually lead to a herpes outbreak.
There’s Only One Kind of Herpes
Many people assume that there’s only one type of herpes, but the reality is that it is one of the different kinds of the virus. Every type of herpes virus is a bit different. The most common type is HSV-1, and around 67% of the world that are under 50 years old have it. Most people get it from oral to oral contact. People can get it when they are kids, too, by merely sharing things like drinks.
You Can Naturally Cure Herpes
Many people state that natural remedies or vitamins can get rid of herpes. However, the unfortunate truth behind herpes is that there is no cure for it, and it will be something that you deal with for a lifetime. While some natural remedies can temporarily ease the discomfort of herpes, it certainly will not cure it. However, you can try out an online herpes treatment process to help you get a diagnosis and prescription to help you deal with outbreaks and avoid them.
A Condom Keeps You from Contracting Herpes
While it is a good practice to use a condom to avoid transmitting herpes, it is not a 100% guarantee. It reduces the risk of contracting herpes by about 30% to 50%, so it would be better to wear one regardless. However, you should use them as much as possible since they are very useful when it comes to protecting you from other STDs.
If You Sleep Around, You Get Herpes
Many people assume that you get herpes if you are sexually active with multiple partners. However, you can throw that rumor out the window. Herpes is very easy to transmit, so you could get it from only having one sexual partner. Remember, more than half of the population has herpes, so a person could get it no matter what number of sexual partners they have. You should also remember that there is more than one type of herpes — it is not always transmitted sexually, so even a few kisses or sharing utensils could put you at risk.
Herpes is more common than we think, and we should not be ashamed of it. Do not listen to the rumors and know the real truth behind herpes and how you can treat it to live the best life that you can.
