Sex and herpes

For many people who find out they have genital herpes, the greatest worry is the effect the virus will have on their relationships.

It’s probably true that all couples are affected in some way by a diagnosis of genital herpes, but the change is not necessarily for the worse. While some relationships are damaged, others are made stronger by the need for honesty and trust the virus creates. See talking with your partner.

Your sex life will determine to some extent how you can manage your herpes.

If you and your current partner both have genital herpes, you don’t need to worry about the risk of passing it on. However, if you want to minimise your symptoms, then an episodic treatment with an antiviral would be appropriate.

If only one of you has genital herpes, you can reduce the risk of passing the virus on with an antiviral treatment which prevents the symptoms occurring.