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Genital Herpes Prevention

Genital Herpes: Prevention


Top Prevention

1. Check your diet

You need to modify your diet as well to prevent recurrence of genital herpes infections. The herpes simplex virus multiples fast in the presence of an amino acid arginine while lysine (another amino acid) inhibits its multiplication. Peanuts, peanut butter, chocolates, almond butter, almonds, and caffeinated beverages are high in arginine and therefore should be strictly avoided. Take enough amounts of vegetables, legumes, turkey, chicken, fresh sea food, low fat dairy products, and brewerโ€™s yeast. These food items contain high amounts of lysine, which prevents genital herpes flare ups.

2. Take regular medications

Get yourself checked by a doctor and take the prescribed medications regularly. Always take FDA approved drugs like valacyclovir to prevent genital herpes infection. Vaginal gels and certain anti-HIV drugs (tenofovir) are also quite effective in preventing and treating this infection. You may have to continue with the medications even if the symptoms subside in order to prevent its recurrence.ย 

3. Stay away from triggers

Excessive stress and anxiety are vital triggering factors of genital herpes infection. Try to maintain mental peace and tranquility to prevent recurrence of this disease. Eat a healthy diet and enjoy 7-8 hours of sleep daily to reduce your stress levels. Physical workouts and practicing yoga can prevent genital herpes infection effectively.

4. Boost your immune system

The Herpes Simplex Virus, like other viruses, can become rampant if you have a weak immune system. This virus does not exhibit any symptoms unless your bodyโ€™s immunity system is seriously compromised. Take enough antioxidants in the form of beta carotene like carrots and other colorful fruits and vegetables. Include sufficient amounts of vitamin C and zinc in your diet to maintain a strong body immunity system.

5. Get your partner tested for HSV infection

As one out of every six adults in the US are carriers for the HSV infection, it is wise to get your partner tested for herpes simplex virus before indulging in sexual activities. Do not assume that your partner is infection free. You may have to pay a heavy price for your carelessness.

6. Maintain proper hygiene

Proper hygienic conditions will certainly help you prevent the recurrence and transmission of genital herpes. Always keep your genital areas clean and dry. Wear clean undergarments and change them twice a day. Wash your genitals with warm water or use anti-bacterial soap to prevent spreading of this infection. Women can use hygiene pads to restrict the infection. Those who are prone to this infection should wear loose fitting cotton undergarments to maintain dryness of the genital areas.

7. Use condoms, spermicides, and dental dams

Condoms are very effective in preventing genital herpes and other sexually transmitted infections. You can avoid direct contact with your partner during sexual intercourse and reduce the chances of infections. Female condoms provide better protection than male condoms as they cover a wider area. People having multiple sexual partners must use condoms or spermicides to prevent transmission of this sexually transmitted disease. Keep it in mind that exposure to unprotected sex makes you vulnerable to genital herpes infection. Those who are allergic to latex can use polyurethane condoms. Use dental dams while having oral sex. You can place these dams on the vagina and anus to avoid direct contact.

8. Limit your sexual partners

Sex is good for health, but things do not remain healthy when a number of sexual partners are involved. Having multiple sexual partners is one of the prime reasons for contracting genital herpes. Be loyal to a single partner and restrict your sexual activity with him/her. A monogamous long term relationship can help prevent this sexually transmitted disease.

9. Abstain from sex

Abstinence from sex is the best way to prevent any type of sexually transmitted disease including genital herpes. Though this is not at all a realistic approach, definitely you can abstain from sex while suffering from this infection. Herpes simplex virus infection can spread through vaginal intercourse and oral sex. Even kissing can spread this infection from a person having oral sores due to genital herpes. Restrict your sexual activity to caressing and cuddling, when suffering from this infection.

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