Herpes is an extremely common virus infection able to cause a recurrent
skin infection that can appear in its different types as small blisters on the
genitals or as cold sores on the mouth. People most often remain totally
unaware that they have this infection. It is poorly understood by many people
and further sensationalized by the media. It is a nuisance, without doubt. It
can be a problem when it recurs very frequently. Safe and effective drug therapy
is now available that reduces the frequency of outbreaks both with and without
symptoms. Herpes can sometimes result in serious complications, but people who
have herpes can easily prevent these complications. If you have the right information,
herpes is a syndrome that can be under your control.
Once herpes has been diagnosed, its recurrence can usually be clearly recognized.
Avoiding transmission comes naturally once you understand the active phases of
infection and begin to use safer sex practices. Control of your infection comes
gradually as your own army of immunity takes over and fights off each recurrence
with efficient killing power. With time, the frequency of recurrences may diminish.
The virus may cause a terrible infection in some newborn babies, but this syndrome
tends to occur most commonly where the mother is experiencing her first-ever (primary)
genital infection. The babies of mothers-to-be with recurrent genital herpes are
largely protected from this complication by the mother's own immunity, which is
passed on to the child more efficiently than the virus itself. Neonatal herpes
is a highly preventable and uncommon disease, and it is almost always under the
control of the mother and her physician if she knows she has herpes and discusses
the problem.
Cervical cancer, which is probably caused by human papillomavirus, is
statistically associated with herpes as well. It is highly doubtful that herpes
actually causes this cancer. Through the yearly Pap smear, this cancer can be
easily detected and effectively dealt with. It is unlikely to occur, herpes
or no herpes.