How to Prevent Herpes Outbreaks

Overview

Genital herpes is commonly referred to as herpes simplex virus 2 or HSV-2. The virus causes blisters to form in the genital region. Once a person is infected, the virus remains in the body for life, because there is no cure. The virus has periods of dormant and active outbreaks. The outbreaks vary from person to person. Some people may have fewer than five outbreaks during a lifetime while others may have regular outbreaks every few months. The infection is spread via skin-to-skin contact. A person who has tested positive for the virus does not need to be in an active outbreak stage to transmit the virus, according to the National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC). The virus can be transmitted to sexual partners when no symptoms are visible.

Step 1

Use condoms correctly on a regular basis. Protect the body from a herpes infection as well as other STDs by using condoms. Transferred by touch, there is always the risk of catching the herpes virus when participating in sexual activity. Using a condom reduces the risk of transmitting the virus by 30 percent, according to researcher Emily T. Martin with the Seattle Children's Hospital Research Institute.

Step 2

Be involved in a long-term, monogamous relationship to reduce the risk of catching the virus. Be tested for the virus to be 100 percent sure neither partner is carrying the virus in its dormant stage.

Step 3

Abstain from all types of sexual intercourse---oral, anal and vaginal intercourse. Practicing abstinence is the only way to guarantee a viral transmission will not occur, according to the NWHIC.

Step 4

Take all medication as prescribed. If herpes is contracted, it can be controlled through medications. These include Valtrex, Zovirax and Famvir. Medications are taken when a person thinks an active outbreak may occur. Signs include redness, itching and formation of blisters near the genitalia. Some medications are available to take orally on a daily basis for those who suffer regular outbreaks.