5 Ways of transmitting genital herpes (not through sex alone)

Genital herpes is an infection of the genitals caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). This infectious disease is characterized by the appearance of spots or spongy filled with fluid in the vaginal, penis, or anal area. You may also feel burning or burning when you urinate, defecate, and have sex. Then how is genital herpes transmitted and what can be done so you don't get this disease? Check out the complete information below.

Various ways of transmitting genital herpes

Transmission of genital herpes occurs when there is direct contact with a person who has this disease. Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2 make it nearly impossible to survive on inanimate surfaces other than human skin or genitals.

Therefore, you are less likely to get genital herpes because you use the same toiletries as someone with herpes. The chances of you catching genital herpes from the lips of public restrooms are also very slim. The reason is, the virus will die instantly when it moves to the lip of the toilet.

However, transmission of herpes is mostly reported because of the following four reasons.

1. Sexual penetration

It is very easy for the genital herpes virus to pass from the genitals of a person with herpes to the genitals of healthy people. Therefore, sexual penetration (penis to vagina) without a condom with a person who has herpes can increase your risk of contracting it.

This risk is also higher if you frequently change sexual partners. The more partners you have, the greater your chances of catching genital herpes from other people.

2. Oral sex

It's not just sexual penetration that can transmit genital herpes. Oral sex (stimulation of the penis, vagina, or rectum by mouth) can also spread the herpes simplex virus. If your partner has oral herpes (in the mouth) and he gives you oral sex, the herpes virus in his mouth can transfer to your genitals.

This is what then makes you get genital herpes even though it originates from the oral herpes that your partner has.

3. Wear it

Although the herpes simplex virus will die quickly when it touches the surface of objects, sex toy or sex toys that are used interchangeably can spread the virus as well.

This is because sex toy You and your partner may be very wet with body fluids such as sperm, saliva (saliva), or vaginal lubricants. Well, the herpes virus will more easily survive in humid environments due to human body fluids.

So if you and your partner immediately take turns using it sex toy and even if one of you has genital herpes, then there is a good chance that you have contracted herpes. However, it is unlikely.

4. Normal delivery

In some cases, a mother who has genital herpes can pass the virus to her baby during normal delivery (vaginally). Therefore, talk to your doctor about the various possible transmission of genital herpes during pregnancy.

How to avoid contracting genital herpes?

Relax, you can still take precautions so you don't catch genital herpes, especially from a partner. Check out the tips here.

1. Not having sex when the herpes symptoms appear

If your partner is still on treatment or recovering from genital herpes, you should not have sex just yet. Whether it's penile penetration into the vagina or oral sex.

2. Have sex with a condom

Sometimes, the sufferer doesn't realize the symptoms of genital herpes. Therefore, always having sex with a condom can be an effective preventive way so as not to catch genital herpes. Men should also continue to use condoms when receiving oral sex from their partners.

3. Do not use

Each partner should have their own sex toys. If you really want to use it interchangeably, first wash it thoroughly with soap and hot water. Then dry thoroughly.

4. Maintain cleanliness and health of the genitals

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), women are more susceptible to contracting genital herpes than men. Therefore, you must always maintain vaginal hygiene and health. Especially when red days or menstrual period. During menstruation, the vagina is more susceptible to attack by bad bacteria and viruses, one of which is the herpes simplex virus.

To prevent viral infections or irritation during menstruation, wash the outside of the vagina with warm water and a feminine antiseptic product at least twice a day.

5. Not mutually partner

Do not change sexual partners. This will only increase your chances of catching and transmitting genital herpes to other people. So, if you finish doing "love one night", immediately check with the doctor to do a venereal disease test.