This goal of this article is to provide a basic genital herpes history. Don’t think of this as a textbook with all of the information you could want or need. Instead, it covers the basics of the virus’ progression through history and how it became so prevalent.

The history of herpes begins as early as ancient Greek times. Hippocrates speaks of the condition in his writings. Even the word “herpes” is a Greek word that means “to creep or crawl” which is the way that the Greeks described the way that skin lesions spread. In Roman times, the emperor Tiberius tried to stop an outbreak of mouth herpes by prohibiting kissing at public events and ceremonies. Soon after Tiberius, a physician named Celsus suggested that herpes be treated by cauterizing the sores with a hot iron. It is unknown how long Tiberius’ ban on kissing lasted or how long Celsus’ treatment was used, but both seem to have ended pretty quickly.

Later in history, Shakespeare is believed to have had knowledge of the virus. In his play Romeo and Juliet he talks about “blisters plagues” which scholars believe refers to the herpes virus. There are also medical journals from the seventeen and early eighteen hundreds that discuss this disease. During this time there was also a lot of speculation as to what caused herpes – one of the most notable was the suggestion that herpes was caused by insect bites. Obviously, the history of herpes contains a lot of misconceptions.

However, this information doesn’t really tell us when or where the history of herpes started. The origin of herpes in humans is unknown. Some scholars believe that it has been around since the beginning of the human race.

In more recent times, there started to be recognition of genital herpes history and the way that the virus spreads as early as the 1900s. Studies began to define various strains of the virus and in 1919 a man by the name of Lowenstein confirmed scientists’ suspicion that herpes was infectious.

Before this time, people were unsure that herpes was a virus – in fact, many considered it to be like other common skin conditions, such as eczema, which cannot be transmitted. Studies of herpes continued into the twentieth century and scientists were able to begin identifying various strains of the virus. Genital herpes history continues as scientists and physicians continue to study it and search for ways to minimize its’ effects and the chance of transmission.

What can we learn from this history of herpes? It certainly reveals that the disease is not just a modern phenomenon. It has been around for a while and unfortunately, unless a cure is found, it will continue to exist. In the meantime, we can be grateful that the medical minds of our age have a much better understanding of the condition and that they are working on ways to minimize the symptoms and hopefully one day eliminate the disease.

Written by Sheldon Miller. He is a health researcher who has been studying natural remedies for herpes and other STDs for many years. He is a regular contributor to Herpes Treatment Guide.

Most studies on chocolate conclude that it is best to eat highly concentrated dark chocolate because it contains more antioxidant, polyphenols and minerals than other varieties and also because it usually contains less added sugar and fat.

Chocolate also contains ingredients which can suppress your immune system, such as metylxantil and small amounts of caffeine and refined sugar.

Its high arginine content gives fuel to herpes reproduction. So chocolate should be avoided by both men and women infected with herpes.

Menopausal women or those suffering from PMS should be extra careful about their chocolate intake. Chocolate can stimulate the production of certain prostaglandins, which are thought to promote PMS. Women with PMS are often advised to avoid beverages or foods (tea, coffee and chocolate) containing Xantine or melxantil in order to reduce nervousness, breast tenderness and irritability.

A 2002 laboratory study conducted in New Jersey suggested that prostaglandins inhibitors such as aspirin could prevent reproduction of the human cytomegalovirus (CMV) virus and that may also be the case with the herpes virus.

Other small studies indicate that a certain type of prostaglandin (E2) exacerbates herpes virus proliferation while another (E1), suppresses it.

In other words, the action of chocolate on prostaglandin (E2) could promote herpes replication and especially in women during PMS and menopause. Body levels of prostaglandin (E1) decrease during PMS and menopause while other types of prostaglandins naturally increase.

This could mean that women who display high prostaglandin levels naturally experience more severe herpes symptoms and that eating chocolate could make things worse for them.

This theory is backed up by my personal experience, and that of my female readers. We are much more herpes-prone during the 7 to 12 days prior to menstruation or during the menopause. So avoiding chocolate a little prior to menstruation is essential. Dairy produce, can contribute to stimulating the production of prostaglandins so milk chocolate is even worse.

Written by Nathalie Foy. Ms Foy is an alternative treatment specialist who has written a book on Herpes Wise.

Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection.

2. What are the types?

There are generally two type of herpes - genital herpes and oral herpes. Genital herpes occur around the genital area while oral herpes appear around the mouth or face.

In medical terms, These are known as Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1 for short), and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (also known as HSV-2).

HSV-1 causes oral herpes, whilst the closely related infection HSV-2 causes genital herpes. Herpes is highly contagious, but it is most likely to be transmitted if the sufferer has open sores.

You can read “What is Herpes” for more information.

3. What are the symptoms of herpes?

If you have herpes the following symptoms are ones that you are most likely to experience:

Itching, painful bumps or blisters appearing in on the genitals, flu like symptoms, a burning sensation when urinating (as a result of urine flowing over the sores), difficulty urinating (this occurs in cases where blisters block the urethra), and open sores on the genitals.

Other symptoms of genital herpes include fever, chills, headache and swollen, tender lymph glands.

4. Does man and woman have the same infection pattern?

In men, the affected areas of genital herpes include- urethra, penis, scrotum, anus and buttocks.

In women, the herpes appears on external genitals, vagina, cervix, buttocks and anus.

5. Is there any indication of a herpes outbreak?

Before any herpes outbreak there is a period called prodrome. During this period you may get sensations such as- tingling, itching or some pain. That indicates that the genital herpes will break out in a day or two. Genital herpes can also spread easily during this prodrome period.

6. Is herpes transmitted via sexual intercourse only?

Not everyone catches genital herpes through sexual intercourse, some actually catch it from cold sores, remember the two viruses that cause herpes are closely related.

7. How is herpes transmitted?

Herpes is spread through direct contact with the sores. People who have oral, vaginal and anal sex are prone to getting the infection. Even with no visible blisters, viral shedding can take place and many spread and acquire the disease unaware that they have.

8. What will confirm a herpes infection?

Herpes is tested with viral culture during active outbreaks. During dormancy (no visible signs), a blood test is performed. These tests are not very accurate and may need to be repeated.

9. After being infected with the herpes virus, how soon will the sores appear?

Sores usually become apparent two to three weeks after the virus has entered the body.

10. What causes herpes flare-ups or recurring outbreaks?

Outbreaks can be caused by any event that causes an impaired immune system such as other infections, stress, surgery or other outside factors. They may also be associated with menstruation, sexual intercourse and skin irritations.

11. Does herpes make me prone to acquire other sexually transmitted diseases?

Yes. Open herpetic sores increase the odds of contracting other venereal diseases.

12. Do pregnant women with herpes transmit the virus to their baby?

Mothers may potentially pass on the virus to their baby. It is vital for a mother to be cautious to avoid the infection or to let herself and her partner be tested for the virus.

13. What are the symptoms of herpes inflection of a newborn child?
Newborns can catch herpes simplex from their mother during birth. If a newborn is infected with the virus, the following symptoms of infection may emerge during the first month after birth: irritability, breathing problems, fever, convulsions, jaundice (yellowish skin), sores on the skin, bruising or low platelet counts (platelets are the part of blood that makes it clot). In the most extreme cases, babies infected with herpes simplex may develop severe eye problems, a small brain size, mental retardation, seizures or even die.

14. Are there any cure?

At the moment there is no cure for herpes, however there are some medications that help to treat the symptoms of herpes by making them last for a shorter period of time.

The simple fact that herpes is a virus is what makes it difficult to find a herpes cure. As a rule the immune system will deal with and destroy any viruses it finds but that fact that the herpes virus retreats and hides so well in the nerves when in the dormant phase makes finding a cure for herpes a more difficult task.

15. When was herpes first known?

No one really knows. The history of herpes begins as early as ancient Greek times. Hippocrates speaks of the condition in his writings. Even the word “herpes” is a Greek word that means “to creep or crawl” which is the way that the Greeks described the way that skin lesions spread.

16. Are there herpes community that I can seek out friendship?

Yes, many. One of the better known sites is PositiveSingles. They even have a STD consultant there.

POSITIVESINGLES.COM adds new feature: “Ask STD counselor” - adding more support for its members than just dating services.

Finding your match when you are suffering from an STD can be easier than you think. Starting from January 15, 2008, members at PositiveSingles.com can ask a STD counselor questions as well as continuing to enjoy updated information about all STDs, various STD forums, uploading pictures, sending e-mails or winks to other members and you can have a limited free membership.

Thousands of people get STDs and don’t realize it. Having an STD could lead to confusion, resentment, anger, and isolating of yourself. One might even be filled with many questions.

According to the CDC, there are over 65 million Americans currently living with an STD, 19 million new STD infections each year, one in three sexually active men and women living with Herpes, and about 50% of all sexually active Americans are affected by HPV.
With STD, many people are afraid to reach out to the people whom they are closest to. The stigma attached to people with infectious diseases suddenly becomes personal. They are afraid of losing friendships and family altogether. This fear can quickly become a reality due to a lack of education.

PositiveSingles.com recently added a STD counselor to the site that has accurate information about STDs. The information that the STD counselor provides covers the most updated information about STDs. The STD counselor can answer such questions as: where to get HPV shots, support group listings, counseling services, relationship questions or any other questions a STD sufferer might have. Information regarding STD testing are also provided when requested.

Members get quality information in addition to the core dating services. Thousands of people on PositiveSingles.com meet, date and get married. Before the members meet they can talk to someone who is facing the same issues that they are facing and share with someone who has the same concerns. By talking about these issues, members can learn new ways to approach a person and stay emotionally stable. Some of the members of PositiveSingles.com are learning how to deal an STD that changed their lives. Some people are looking for a local relationship or partner who lives nearby. The sharing and support of a problem creates a healthy and positive atmosphere.

About PositiveSingles.com

PositiveSingles.com was launched in 08-Aug-2002, and markets its services around the world. The founding team’s vision is to build a community for people with STDs, where they can find friendship, support, and love! It is ranked the #1 website for online dating for those with STDs. 3/5 of those members are living with HSV, 1/5 with HIV/AIDS, 1/10 with HPV. There are more STDs. Hundreds of members join every day. Beyond the networking of relationships, PositiveSingles.com has medical information and success stories. Those affected by a disease and those around them are staying positive and strong. The family and friends of an individual with an STD can be very supportive as well. For more information, visit http://www.PositiveSingles.com.

*Source: http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/stds-hiv-safer-sex/herpes.htm
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/expectmore/summary/10002162vositiveSingles.com

It is important that if you decide to stay together, then both of you must take responsibility to ensure that you continue to enjoy a healthy, intimate live together.

By knowing, it can already help prevent the spread of herpes. Because you can begin to take steps.

There is no way to guarantee that herpes will not spread. But there are ways to help reduce the risks.

First, consult your physician. This is very important as there are different STDs and herpes might not be the only problem. Having full information will help you and your partner.

Check if Valtrex is suitable. It is known to reduce the risk. But again, this needs to be taken in consultation with a physician.

Here are some steps that you can take which will help reduce the risks:

• Do not have sex when you have an outbreak
• Do not have sex when you suspect that you are about to have an outbreak
• Always have protected sex (that is, use a condom)
• Take your medication (if prescribed)

Never take medication without first consulting your physician.

Over at yoshi2me.com, a list of support groups are listed for various countries and states. This is an excellent site (www.yoshi2me.com) overall and contains great information for all those who are curious about or are suffering from herpes. Yoshi2me is a generous and knowledgeable herpes patient advocate who has committed her time and energies to helping others.

So what if the statistics say that 80% of Americans suffer from herpes? There is still a significant social stigma associated with herpes that is way out of proportion to the knowledge that we now have about this STD (sexually transmitted disease).

For many people, they experience an emotional and social impact that is greater than the physical impact of herpes. People can be judgemental in their attitudes, especially towards herpes. Likely, it is because herpes is an incurable viral infection, and it will stay with you for the rest of your life. This frightens people.

Reactions range from shock, anger, embarrassment, fear, helplessness, guilt, shame and a general lowering of self image, when a person is first diagnosed with herpes. Most people are more concerned about the impact on their current and future relationships than they are about the infection itself.

Most people will need some time to adjust to the fact that they have an infection and it will be one that they must live with for the rest of their lives. But once they have accepted this, they can begin to learn more about the virus. They can learn how to deal with the outbreaks, how to manage their relationships and most importantly, how to continue with their lives.

One of the most critical phases faced by sufferers would be telling their partner about their herpes infection.

How you will tell, what details you will reveal (or conceal), and even when and if you tell is a decision that each individual has to make themselves. Honesty is very important in any relationship, and trust and respect are keys to a successful one. Allow your partner the opportunity to make a choice. Telling your partner after you have build a relationship of trust and respect, but have not yet started sexual relations is a responsible and mature thing. Not only can it build more trust and respect, but it can also prevent the spread of the virus if proper precautions are taken. Yes, it is possible to have normal relations even if you have contracted herpes.

Don’t try to face your problems alone. A family physician or a professional at an STD clinic can provide helpful information and advise. They can provide some level of support for you, emotionally and also in terms of helping you understand your situation better.

In most areas, there are support groups that you can contact. Reading up on the subject will also help you gain a better understanding of how to cope.

Usually the first outbreak after infection is the most severe. There will be blisters filled with fluid either on the face, genital or anus. These blisters should crust and dry without any scar. The outbreak might be accompanied by other symptoms like fever. Usually, the first episode is the most severe. But there are cases where the symptoms are so mild that the patient is not even aware that they have contracted an STD.

The herpes outbreak can recur from time to time and the probability of transmitting it to another person is highest during these periods. But herpes can be transmitted even when no sores are seen.

Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simple Virus and there are two variants: HSV-1 and the HSV-2 viruses.

HSV-1 is generally associated with oral herpes, or more commonly known as cold sores. The HSV-2 virus is generally associated with genital herpes.

There is a common misconception that HSV-1 is the “good” virus, while HSV-2 is the “bad” virus. The reason for this is the fact that cold sores are some how, more socially acceptable than the outbreak of genital herpes.

But the reality is that both of these viruses are very similar. They both transmit through sexual contact and that can be by oral sex or penetrative sex. Both types of virus attacks the body’s mucosal surfaces, and usually the face or the genitals, then they become dormant but continue to be found in the body.

The HSV-1 virus normally establishes its “base” around the nerve cells near the ear, while the HSV-2 virus some how prefers to establish itself near the base of the spine.

This is the reason HSV-1 outbreaks are normally around the lower lip or face and the HSV-2 outbreaks are around the genital areas. But both viruses are essential the same. In terms of severity of infection and risk of infection, there is little to differentiate them.

There is no cure for herpes. However, outbreaks can be controlled by anti-viral creams and medication.

All told, the herpes infection is much more of a social problem than it is a medical problem. Most outbreaks can be treated and in many cases, the effects are mild. But the social stigma of having contacted an STD like herpes can devastate social and family life.

If you suspect you are suffering from herpes, you should consult your doctor.

Many people are devastated when they learn about their affliction. But, no matter how long it takes, you can get over it. Unbelievable as it may seem at first, you can come to terms with your condition.

It may take you a long time to accept and most likely, an even longer time before you can speak to anyone about your condition; but if you take a positive “can do” attitude, you will find your break through.

Whether you are suffering from herpes, hpv, hiv, or other STDs; know that you are not alone.  There are many others who suffer from the same, or similar, viral infections. If you are willing to to reach out, there are others who are willing to meet you half way.