Burning desire part two

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes, HSV-type 1 which commonly causes fever blisters on the mouth or face (oral herpes, also known as cold sores), and HSV-type 2 which typically affects the genital area (genital herpes). Both types can cause either genital or oral infections. Most of the time, HSV-1 and HSV-2 are inactive, or 'silent' with no symptoms, but some infected people have sporadic 'outbreaks' of blisters and ulcers. Once a person has contracted HSV, it remains with them for life.

HSV-1 and HSV-2 are transmitted through direct contact, including kissing, sexual contact (vaginal, oral or anal sex), or skin-to-skin contact with an infected area.

Genital herpes can be transmitted with or without the presence of sores or other symptoms. It is often passed on by people who are unaware that they are infected, or by people who don't realise their infection can be transmitted even when they have no symptoms.

The consistent and correct use of latex condoms is the best protection from herpes. However, condoms do not provide complete protection, because a herpes lesion may not be completely covered by a condom and the infection may spread. If you or your partner has genital herpes, it is best to abstain from sex when symptoms are present, and to use latex condoms between outbreaks.

How do you know that you have it?

•  Itching or tingling sensations

•  Painful blisters filled with fluid in the genital and/or rectal area

•  Mild fever

•  Lumps in the groin area

•  Painful urination

•  Difficulty urinating

•  Urgent or frequent urination

•  Painful sexual intercourse

•  Incontinence

•  Genital sores

Will it affect my chances of having children?

No, but if you have an outbreak at the time of birth, you doctor will advise you to have a Caesarian.