Can you have a successful relationship with herpes?

If you’ve recently found out that you have herpes, or recently found out you might be considering dating someone with HSV-1 or HSV-2, it’s vital that you stay positive. With the right combination of medication, conversation and understanding, it’s still very possible to form and maintain normal romantic relationships.

What steps should you take if you have herpes?

Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve pain. Apply cool compresses to sores several times a day to relieve pain and itching. Women with sores on the vaginal lips (labia) can try urinating in a tub of water to avoid pain.

Can herpes heal in 7 days?

Genital herpes outbreaks typically heal within 3-7 days. Using antiviral medications at the first sign of an outbreak can speed up healing.

Can you make out with someone with herpes and not get it?

Yes, you can still have sex if you have HSV-1 or HSV-2. However, you should avoid intimate contact if you’re experiencing an active outbreak. This will reduce the risk for transmission to your partner. For example, if you have a cold sore you should avoid kissing your partner or performing oral sex.

Can you ever kiss again with herpes?

So, can you ever kiss again? I vote yes, although there is a slight chance of transmitting the virus even in the absence of any symptoms. To reduce the likelihood of transmission, if you DO have an active HSV-1 lesion (like a lip blister), skip the kiss…and give a hug!

Can you have a herpes infection in a long-term relationship?

There is also no cure for herpes infection which can make it difficult for you to date or have a long-term relationship. Your main concern may be the possibility of transmission to your partner when kissing or having sexual or skin-to-skin contact.

When to talk to your partner about herpes?

If you’re worried about how your partner might react, talk to them about it in a safe place. You could bring it up over dinner when you’re getting near the going home together phase. Or you could have the talk while you’re out for a walk, and perhaps a make-out session.

Can you date if you have genital herpes?

Numerous people with genital and oral herpes are open about disclosing their condition. Most of them have active, happy dating and sexual lives. The truth is, it’s so hard to meet the right person that dating with herpes makes it only the tiniest bit harder. Life after herpes doesn’t mean life without love.

What happens when you tell someone you have herpes?

You may also have implied that your herpes diagnosis is more important than the other things they find attractive about you. If someone is really interested in you before you tell them you have herpes, they probably will be afterward as well. It just helps to tell them early. That makes it less likely that they’ll feel exposed and/or betrayed.