Herpes is one of the most common viral infections worldwide and can occur in various forms. Unfortunately, this disease is often misunderstood and is associated with many myths regarding both infection and treatment. Herpes can occur in different ways, with the best-known forms being cold sores and genital herpes. In this article, you can find out more about the causes, transmission routes, symptoms and tips on treatment and prevention.

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of this virus:

HSV-1: This type mainly causes cold sores (oral herpes), but can also affect other parts of the body such as the eyes or genitals.

HSV-2: This type is more commonly associated with genital herpes, but can also affect other parts of the body.

After an initial infection, the virus remains in the body and can "lie dormant" in the nerve cells. Just annoying, isn't it? Many sufferers only experience one-off outbreaks, while others suffer from symptoms on a regular basis. Stress, hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle or a weakened immune system can reactivate the virus and lead to a new outbreak.

The symptoms of a herpes outbreak depend greatly on the affected area and the individual reaction. However, there are typical signs associated with the virus.

Cold sores (HSV-1):

Small, painful blisters around the lips or mouth area.

A tingling or burning sensation is often the first sign before blisters appear.

The blisters burst after a few days, leaving wounds that crust over and heal within about a week.

Genital herpes (HSV-2):

Pain and blisters in the genital or anal area, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes very painful. The affected areas are sensitive, often accompanied by itching or burning. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle or limb pain and swollen lymph nodes are also common.

General symptoms:

Increased tiredness, headaches and a general feeling of malaise occur, especially during the first outbreak.

Herpes can also be asymptomatic, i.e. there are no visible or tangible signs, but the virus remains active in the body. This of course makes the virus particularly insidious and easy to spread.

Herpes is particularly contagious when the infection is active and visible blisters are present. However, the virus can also be transmitted without symptoms. It is transmitted through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. There are different ways in which herpes can be transmitted. The most common transmission routes include

Oral transmission: Kissing or direct contact with the mouth area of an infected person.

Sexual transmission: Sexual intercourse or skin contact in the genital area.

Indirect transmission: Through shared personal items such as lip balms or towels.

Even in the "resting phase", when there are no symptoms, the virus can be active and transmitted to other people. The use of condoms and other protective measures reduces the risk, but cannot completely prevent transmission. Speaking of condoms: condoms are not only important for reducing the risk of contracting herpes, but also for protecting against other sexually transmitted diseases. You can find out which diseases can be transmitted through sex here here. Condoms are now available in many different sizes and are even vegan! They are not only important for your health, but are also a good alternative to hormonal contraceptives for many people. Are you already familiar with the range of different contraceptives? Here we present them to you.

As the herpes virus remains in the body after an initial infection, there are certain triggers that can reactivate the virus. The most common factors include

Stress: both emotional and physical stress can weaken the immune system and therefore promote an outbreak.

Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes in particular, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle, can favor herpes. Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone levels that occur before and during menstruation weaken the immune system and create a favorable environment for the virus.

Sun exposure: UV rays can cause an outbreak of cold sores in susceptible people.

Illnesses and a weakened immune system: Illnesses and a weakened immune system promote the activity of the virus.

The duration for which the virus is active and contagious depends on the individual course of the outbreak. With a typical cold sore, an outbreak lasts between one and two weeks; the course of genital herpes is similar. Herpes is most contagious when blisters and sores are visible. However, it is important to note that the virus can also be active during the "dormant phase", i.e. when there are no visible symptoms. Although herpes can also be transmitted without visible blisters, infection is less likely than when there is an outbreak.

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for herpes, but there are effective ways to alleviate the symptoms and control outbreaks. Here are some of the most common methods:

1. antiviral medications

Doctors often prescribe antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir or valaciclovir. These inhibit the replication of the virus and accelerate healing. These medications are most effective if they are taken immediately after the first signs of an outbreak. Ask your doctor for detailed information about treatment options.

2. home remedies and alternative approaches

Some people find relief through natural remedies and home remedies:

Tea tree oil: this substance has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and can be applied to the blisters.

Aloe vera: The cooling gel soothes the affected area and accelerates healing.

Cold compresses: These reduce pain, swelling and itching that often accompany herpes.

However, it is advisable to consider home remedies as supportive measures and to seek medical advice for more severe outbreaks.

3. long-term prevention and a healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the frequency of outbreaks. A few proven methods of prevention:

Strong immune defenses through nutrition: a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, helps the immune system. Did you also know that adapting your diet to the individual phases of your cycle can have benefits for your well-being? We explain more about this here.

Stress management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation and taking regular breaks can help to reduce stress levels. Yoga can even help to reduce your menstrual pain. Try these 5 yoga exercises. If meditation is more your thing, then you'll find this blog post will appeal to you. Want to soothe your period pain through breathing? That's also possible, as you can see here can find out here.

Sun protection: Sun protection is not only the best anti-ageing and an effective method of preventing skin cancer, but is also recommended for herpes. Effective sun protection on the face and lips is particularly important for people with a tendency to cold sores.

Hygiene and precautionary measures

Herpes infections can be prevented by taking a few simple measures. Those who are already infected can minimize the spread by taking hygienic measures.

Personal hygiene: Do not share hygiene products such as razors (we recommend that you use a safety razor to reduce skin irritation), toothbrushes or lip balm. Would you like to find out more about suitable body care? Then you can find an informative blog post about it here.

Avoid direct skin contact: During an outbreak, skin contact and sexual activity should be avoided to reduce infection.

Period underwear: This offers a gentle alternative to disposable menstrual products and is particularly skin-friendly. Period underwear made from breathable materials such as organic cotton helps to keep the intimate area dry and protected, which can be helpful in the event of irritation caused by herpes. For example, sanitary towels often chafe the intimate area and do not allow the skin to "breathe". A sustainable alternative to this are our cloth pads which you can even wash at 60 degrees. Not only our pads, but also tampons and period underwear can withstand a wash cycle of 60 degrees. This means that you can rely on our washable gamechangers even during an existing infection in the genital area, as the membrane of our taynies will not be deformed by washing at 60 degrees.

As a rule, herpes has no effect on fertility. However, caution is advised if you have an active genital herpes infection during childbirth, as transmission to the newborn is possible. Are you about to have children? Then take a look at our blog post about the benefits of a vegan diet during pregnancy.

We at Taynie recommend that you inform yourself thoroughly about herpes and consider the tips mentioned for prevention and relief. A conscious lifestyle and the use of skin-friendly products, such as our period underwear, significantly support your well-being in everyday life and can help to minimize the risk of outbreaks. If you suffer from herpes, you should not shy away from visiting your doctor, as they can provide you with helpful support for your treatment.

Author: Taynie.de