5 Things You Need to Know About Dating And Herpes

1. The Stats

About 25 percent of American adults carry the genital herpes virus. But--get this--up to 90 percent of those infected don't even know it. That's because they have very mild symptoms, if any at all. Coupled with the fact that most doctors don't test for herpes during a generic STD test, there are a lot of ignorant people out there in the dating world. If you ask a doctor for a test, many will say they can't do it because you're not having an active outbreak. But, that's not true. There are new herpes blood tests that are 95 to 100 percent accurate.

2. Look for Love

There are many cities that have support groups for people with herpes. It's a way to meet other people in the same situation you are. Some of the groups plan meetings and times to hang out. It's a great place to meet people and find a date. If this isn't your cup of tea, there are online dating websites for people with herpes. Just because you have herpes doesn't mean you're always contagious and will spread it to your sexual partner.

3. Telling Your Partner

Always tell your partner that you have herpes before having any sexual contact with them. That's what is decent and fair to do. Give him enough time to read up on herpes and determine whether he wants to continue the relationship. Explain that there are many different kinds of herpes and that it's not always transmitted between partners. Don't wait until you're about to have sex for the first time. Timing is key when dealing with the uncomfortable topic of herpes. Look at it with way--if you're not comfortable talking to him about it, you're not ready for a sexual relationship.

4. Always use a Rubber

There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of transmitting herpes to your partner. There are tons of couples where one person has herpes and the other one doesn't. To cut down on the possibility of transmitting herpes, practice safe sex. The Pill won't do it, either. A condom will work if it covers the area where you or your partner has outbreaks. It's a better bet to avoid sex during herpes outbreaks. Suppressive therapy like Valtrex has proved to reduce your risk of spreading herpes by 73 percent. It's wise to protect yourself between herpes outbreaks, just in case.

5. Get Tested

Have your partner tested for herpes. It's easier to reduce your risk of spreading it if you both know your status for herpes. You should also monitor outbreaks as closely as possible. Many people with herpes feel a tingling sensation right before an outbreak. It's important to pay attention to the signs and avoid intimate contact when you think you may be experiencing an outbreak. Use your common sense.