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Research Shows That Weed Could Help Herpes Patients

To this day, many forms of studies and experiments have been carried out to help the herpes-struck community to the maximum. There has been a fair share of researches carried out to discover natural methods to soothe the effects of herpes or to delay the recurrent outbreaks. One of the most recent and most surprising research finding was that weed or marijuana could actually help herpes patients!

Tansy

Professor Francisco Parra of the Universidad de Oviedo and Dr. Solomon Habtemariam of the University of Greenwich have kept busy, working on a flowering plant known as tansy. It is their mission to discover the plant’s medicinal efficacy in treating differentproblems, trying to figure out what all health benefits could be achieved from making use of this tansy. As we know, herpes requires its patients to take antivirals to help manage the outbreaks. Dr. Solomon and Professor Francisco have found that tansy actually happens to be a strong antiviral. They unearthed that tansy has compounds such as axillarin and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid that have antiherpetic outcomes.

Tansy has been used for eons to treat conditions such as rheumatism, along with nurse fever-ridden people. It is also renowned for killing internal parasites, along with treating digestive issues, nervousness, ear ringing, respiratory conditions, hypertension, mental petulance, fatigue, stomach aches and much more. According to a 2006 report, tansy also makes a brilliant diuretic too. In short, this plant has been effective to a great extent, now having a new addition to its list of medicinal uses.

However, consuming tansy oil can cause turbulence in your overall digestive tract and also in your liver, which is why consulting a physician before making use of any tansy products is recommended.

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Is Herpes Actually Related To Angina Risk?

Angina is a form of chest pain that is the consequence of blocked blood vessels. It strikes more than 3 million people in the United States of America each year, causing discomfort and sometimes even causing a heart attack. A new, Canadian research has shown some devastating points: there happens to be a slightly higher chance of angina in some people who have a strain of herpes virus in their genes. Apparently, these people have thrice the risk of facing angina when compared to others. But here is the catch: the study is talking about just 1% of the world’s human population.

Angina PectorisLouis Flamand of Laval University of Quebec has said that there is no way to get rid of this problem since it is literally embedded in the person’s genetic make-up. But he also mentioned that preventive measures can be taken: these people could be observed for any progresses in any type of cardiovascular disease. Louis also added that he believes that new-borns should be tested for this, as part of a new routine. Louis mentioned that this risk could come about before the child is even born. According to him, when the new-born is just an egg or a sperm, it could be infected with that specific type of herpes virus. This virus is specifically known to cause a disease during childhood, called roseola.

Louis and his team carried out a study that involved 20000 people aged 40 t0 69 years old. This age range was observed since it is best known to have individuals with cardiovascular diseases of different types. After checking statistics properly, Louis and the team found that whoever had the genetic condition had from 3 to 10% chances of having angina. According to these experts, this strain of herpes virus helps clog the blood vessels, along with destructing the linings of arteries in the body.

Dr. Hugh Watkins of the University of Oxford disagrees with Louis; he says that new-borns need not be tested. According to Hugh, this strain of the herpes virus has just a tiny effect on angina. However, Louis has stated that he and his team wish to figure out how else this herpes virus affects the body.

For more questions about herpes, please read this post Top 10 Questions About Herpes Answered.

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Herpes Is Not Always The By-Product Of Unfaithfulness

Do We Truly Understand Herpes?

The truth is, no, we do not understand the condition well. Therefore, it is probably very silly of us to assume that herpes is always a result of disloyalty. We are not trying to say that infidelity never leads to herpes, because it does happen. However, when someone close to us or our partner contracts the disease, it is wrong to assume that they have been a cheating scoundrel. Our heart goes out to all those individuals who have caught the infection, having to face questions about their faithfulness on a daily basis, being judged by all those who find out that they have herpes.

New Form Of Genital Herpes

It is said that one out of four American adults has contracted herpes, which is quite a figure if you do the math. Recent studies have help dig out a piece of information that is crucial for all those men and women who assume that herpes is the by-product of disloyalty. This is: there is type of genital herpes that is being caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus. Now, this is absolutely shocking, since the herpes simplex type 1 virus is known to cause just cold sores. However, these experts know what they are doing, don’t you think? Yes, we thought so too.

This type of genital herpes is can be passed on by the direct contact of a person with the sores. Often, this type of herpes occurs even when there are no visible symptoms. Experts have stated that this form of herpes comes about due to sexual contact, but does not require you to have had sexual intercourse with the infected person. Although in women genital herpes means painful and itchy sores on the vulva, in many cases these sores spread beyond the groin area.

Even If Your Partner Did Get It From Having Sexual Intercourse

Even though it is not too common, many initial outbreaks could pass by and you will not even figure it out. Therefore, even if you partner did get it from someone, it could have been before you two began dating or got married. And because it is possible for the initial outbreak to go by unnoticed, your partner may not have discovered that they have managed to contract herpes. The possibilities are endless, which is why you need to sit them down and have a long talk and clear things out before pointing fingers and making serious, hurtful accusations.

Ways To Help Keep This Problem In Check

There are several ways to keep your little infection in check, along with the outbreaks that take place every now and then. Some of these methods have been mentioned below:

  • The use of drugs that are antiviral could help in this matter. You would want to make sure that one of the following drugs is being prescribed to you: Acyclovir, Famciclovir, Penciclovir or Valacyclovir. These are taken orally and help reduce the occurrences of outbreaks.
  • Of course, when you are having sexual intercourse, be sure to make use of condoms to prevent any transmission of the herpes simplex infection. Additionally, keep away from any forms of other types of sexual contact, such as oral sex.
  • During an outbreak, you MUST take care of the sores and blisters. The areas need to be dry, which is why you must first wash them with water and soap.
  • See a doctor and discuss your condition, learn more and find out what will help your condition.

For more information about herpes testing, please visit this post Getting Tested For Herpes: The Real Procedures.

What If They HAVE Been Unfaithful?

This is something personal, which is why we think it is safe to say that the consequences are in the hands of those close to those who contracted herpes due to infidelity. However, let us remind you a handful of things:

  • Unless this person cheated on you, he/she definitely does not need your opinion about them and their personal life.
  • This person is already suffering due to the pain, fever and sore blisters and lesions. They probably could not have received a worse punishment. You could go a little easy with your behaviour towards them.
  • If you are the person who has been cheated on, put yourself in their shoes and ponder a little. Would you have wanted them to forgive you and help you through this difficult phase? If yes, then you should probably give them a chance too and support them through the tough times.
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Herpes Awareness: How Condoms Come To Rescue

Although you may not know it, herpes could be a grave matter. Even though it is not fatal, the patients have to bear the consequences till their last breath. And honestly speaking, all that extra mental and physical stress gets too much to handle at some point or another. So, what could be done? If you have contracted the disease already, it truly is unfortunate and you will need to keep vigil at all times; you do not want to spread the infection to others or cause yourself to experience more pain than you already are in. However, if you have NOT contracted the illness, stay alert and always keep yourself protected.

Use CondomSince herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, you will need to be protected during sexual intercourse at all times, especially if your partner has genital herpes. Probably the best way to keep yourself safeguarded is by making use of condoms during sexual intercourse. Although, new study discoveries show that condoms merely reduce the risk of acquiring genital herpes from others, but does not completely eliminate the chances. How is that possible, you ask? Researchers carried out polls and have found that individuals who use condoms steadily have about 30% reduced risk than those who do not use them. This is disappointing when we consider how condoms work better in terms of preventing the contraction of the HIV virus. This 30% is only because herpes is from skin contact, which means even the area that is not covered by the condom could help spread the infection.

Emily Martin of the University of Washington and Children’s Hospital Research Institute has explained that even though the 30% may seem less, it could have a huge positive impact on the human population, if they only swear to make use of condoms.

There was a study conducted on 5000 people who made use of condoms, whether consistently or every now and then. In this experiment, it was found that there was no big difference in the degree of protection, between men and women. The researchers also discovered that even people who did not religiously use condoms got an increased level of security from using condoms, as long as they made sure to wear one for all sexual acts.

To conclude this matter, experts highly recommend the use of condoms, regardless of the type of sexual act they are participating in. In this way, you get added protection from genital herpes, which in turn guards all those who you are sexually active with. It is a good cycle that must be kept going.

Continue to read about Top 10 Questions About Herpes Answered.

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Herpes: The Silent Assailant

If you are about to have sexual intercourse with a person, there is at least a 10% chance of you contracting herpes from them. Quite a high possibility, is it not? We thought so too!

This percentage mentioned was discovered from a study where swabs were taken from the genitals of about 500 individuals infected with the herpes simplex virus. What is shocking is that over 15% of this population assumed that they were clean, until they went through this blood test for herpes.

Not known to many people, at least 16% of the American population has the herpes simplex type 2 virus. Sadly, from 75-90% of this group of people do not even know that they have the virus, merely since they did not see symptoms or just because they did not think much of it. These unsuspecting carriers were found to have been shedding virus on at least 3 days out of the whole month, without even having an inkling about it.

A researcher from the University of Washington called Anna Wald mentioned that the biggest concern about these unwary carriers was that they make sexual intercourse with other individuals risky. Anna and her colleagues unearthed a few facts from their study:

  • Even if they have genital skin that has no sores and blisters, infected men could still shed the virus.
  • Individuals with herpes that do not show symptoms shed the virus as much as those who show symptoms.
  • Women shed virus as often as men.
  • Although there is no proof that this is absolutely correct, it seems as if white people shed virus more often that non-white people
  • Individuals with herpes that do not show symptoms shed virus only about half as often as those who show signs and symptoms.
  • It is almost impossible to calculate how much of the herpes virus is required to bring about an outbreak.
  • If a person has both herpes simplex virus 1 and 2, having virus 1 does not determine how often the person will shed type 2 virus.
  • The key is to keep check of the number of times the patient sheds the herpes virus in 12 months. If it is less than 8 times, they are shedding virus 19% of the entire year. If it is more than 8 times, these individuals are shedding virus 31% of the entire year.

Since herpes is a disease that is quite tough to detect in some people’s situation, it is best to go in for a check-up and get a herpes blood test done. And if you have not got around to do that, but have been feeling as if you may be infected, you could opt for one of the following options to stay safe:

  • Daily intake of valacyclovir, which is a drug for herpes.
  • Having a discussion about having herpes with your partner(s).
  • Making sure to use condoms whenever you get involved in some sexual act.
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Guarding Your Children From The Herpes Virus

Herpes is of two types: oral herpes and genital herpes. While the latter is caused by the herpes simplex virus 2, the first is brought about by herpes simplex virus 1. Oral herpes causes sores and blisters to appear around the mouth region, including on the lips. The herpes simplex virus 1 usually lies dormant in the body, until the individual gets ill and their immune system takes a hit. Right then, the virus wakes up and could easily spread via skin contact. Since youngsters, kids and infants have a weaker immune system when compared to adults, they have a high chance of catching the infection, which could mean a problem. As it is, kids already feel embarrassed when cold sores appear, as they are painful and do not look flattering. Sadly, the cycle takes about 10 days, which could be a matter of concern if the child/kid goes to school. Being around other children may cause the infection to spread easily, which starts a terrifying cycle.

ChildrenInstead of catching oral herpes, passing it on to your child/children, the best thing you could do is try to keep them safe from the virus itself. Children are young and do not understand the fact that they should not be sharing different things with you or whoever has oral herpes. Therefore, it is up to you to make sure that all areas that have come in contact with your sores need to be washed thoroughly.

This is not just it! Since the herpes virus looks for cuts and openings on the potential patients around you, make sure to remind your child to apply the likes of lip balm at all times. If you wish to make a natural lip balm of your own, follow these steps:

  • Take 1 part beeswax pearls, 2 parts sweet almond oil and a few drops of wheat germ oil.
  • Heat the two oils together in a pan and add the beeswax pearls.
  • Allow the mixture to cool and then add some drops of essentials oils.
  • Pour into tubs and small, personal jars.

Since the herpes virus requires arginine to thrive, foods rich in that should be avoided, such as cashews, chocolate, grain cereals, cola, peas, and much more. Furthermore, teach your children to wash their hands regularly and keep items like toys away from their mouth. Additionally, do give them a bottle of hand sanitizer for the time they are outside. If your child already has cold sores, prevent them from sharing or borrowing towels, toys or handkerchiefs, since this could only spread the infection to other children.

It is crucial that your child does not lick the sores and blisters around his/her mouth. They should keep the region dry at all times, allowing quick healing. If you want, you could press a slightly damp teabag to their sores. Tea has tannic acid, which has antiviral properties to help the blisters and sores.

Since toothbrushes touch the cold sores, you could buy a new one for your child when the blisters appear, only to change it on the day the blisters get healed completely. To treat the cold sores, make use of essential oils since they act as preventatives.

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Dating With Herpes: Stepping Into Unknown Waters

Dating? And Me?

Yes, a million times yes! Dating has been a part of this world since year zero. Dating is the first step to finding love and a happily ever after, along with being a tonne of fun! However, it is not as easy as it may seem, given the various problems that could arise. Herpes is just one of those issues, one that is usually hard to accept. Therefore, is it not wise to just avoid all the trial-and-error and get right to your Mr/Ms Right? Yes, we thought so too!

But… What Do I Do?

Below are some factors that will help you understand dating a little better and help you find the perfect partner for yourself:

Avoid: Focusing on Just the Chemistry

We completely understand the struggle of finding someone who makes you want to hang on to every word of theirs. In fact, dating can be tough like that; you will need to sift through a pile of people till someone comes along who just grabs your attention like it is no big deal. However, being blindly attracted to them, only because of the chemistry between you two, is not really a smart move.

For instance, if the person has herpes, would you actually want to take the risk of acquiring it, only because you two have this sizzle going on between you two? If your brain says “yes”, pay it no heed! This is because after you sleep with this person, find out that you have contracted herpes from them, only you would feel foolish, cursing yourself for being so driven by just attraction.

We do not mean that you are not entitled to find someone with similar interests and a great face/body. What we are trying to imply is, please do not be blinded by JUST the magnetism.

Embrace: Keeping a Good Vibe on

Do not let your past get to you. Whatever bad things have happened, learn from those and keep strong. There is a good chance that you WILL come across someone who makes the long wait feel like it was worth it. Then, all your past worries and miseries will not matter anymore.

Avoid: Being Wary of Finding Love

Of course, dating is not going to be easy, especially if you have had your fair share of failures. Yes, dating could get you highly exasperated and furious at times. However, do not give up! If you think you will not find love or that you will not even come across people who are your type, you are wrong. Maybe, all you need is to just give it some time. You must remember that losing hope and limiting your choices will not help at all; you will lose before you win. Get out there, show some enthusiasm and scout out some new, interesting people who could help you enjoy life. Who knows, you might find love soon.

Embrace: Being Fond of Your Partner

You know what absolutely kills the spark between you and a potential lover? That would be trying to turn the relationship into a series of counselling sessions. Yes, you can speak to your partner about your pet peeves, daddy issues and other personal stuff, but not at the first go! No one likes to be a punching bag or a therapist for the person they are dating. There will be a time when you find peace and comfort in each other’s presence, after some time of dating. Then, feel free to share everything. Till then, try to keep your relationship lively and enjoyable, so that your partner just cannot get enough of you.

Avoid: Do not Let Your Expectations Go Sky-high

Yes, people keep telling you that you deserve better than the last guy you dated. However, this does not mean that you need to let your expectations go unbelievably, dangerously high. Chances are, you will be disappointed. Besides, if you keep your expectations to somewhere average, you might be blown away when Mr/Ms Right comes walking through your door. Remember, being realistic is the key！

Embrace: Asking Your Partner if They Are Clean

Hey, there is no shame in that! Sexually transmitted diseases are common in several regions of the world. Herpes, Chlamydia, AIDS are just some of them, each having its own set of consequences. Do you want to contract any of these? Absolutely not! Therefore, when you are certain that you have found someone you want to be intimate with, ask them if they are clean. Your body is going to thank you for it!

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Can Herpes Lead To Cervical Cancer?

Quite some time ago, it was discovered that the herpes simplex virus type 2 plays a big role in cervical cancer. It seems the virus assists the human papillomavirus (HPV) to promote this type of cancer that is the reason behind thousands of women’s death each annual year.

According to a study done on a group of women with cervical cancer, around half of them had been struck by the herpes simplex virus 2 too, which led to the conclusion that has been mentioned above. However, this does not mean that all genital herpes patients that are women are prone to getting cervical cancer. The study’s main focus was to promote the regular visits to the nearest clinic or laboratory to get a Pap smear done. For those who do not know, the Pap smear tells the doctor and the patient if the papillomavirus is present in the patient’s body.

Herpes and CancerExperts say that at least 24 million Americans are attacked by the human papillomavirus, which happens to have at least 100 different strains. While there a few of these that only cause genital warts, others are transmitted via sexual contact with no protection used. The second type could be harmless though, which comes as a relief. Unfortunately, there are 14 types of human papillomavirus that lead to an aggressive case of cervical cancer. As a matter of fact, about 90% of all cervical cancer and other genital cancer cases are due to these 14 human papillomavirus.

A researcher known as Jennifer Smith has mentioned that female individuals that have been infected by both human papillomavirus and herpes simplex virus 2 are twice or thrice more likely to also get cervical cancer. Although this may seem scary and far-fetched, the study was carried out using the results from over 2000 women across continents like Europe, Asia and Latin America. Jennifer’s study even saw that Asian women had the highest rate of cervical cancer. Apparently, this study was done mostly in regions where Pap smears are not too easy to get done.

Since 1955, the death rate of cervical cancer has gone down by an astounding 74%, only due to the regular use of Pap smears. Therefore, today, cervical cancer has about a 100% cure rate, if a Pap smear is taken at the early stages of the cancer. Doctors advise women to come in for at least 2 or 3 Pap smear tests each year. While this is a great piece of information that gives hope to cervical cancer patients, it must be kept in mind that herpes has no permanent cure. Spread via unprotected sexual contact, herpes has now become a very common ailment in the United States of America. When triggered, the outbreaks, blisters and sores are painful and problematic.

The conclusion is that the presence of the genital herpes virus in the body is just one of the factors that promote cervical cancer. There are many other factors, such as early pregnancy and childbirth, high number of childbirths and smoking.

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Are We Forgetting About Herpes?

Even just a decade ago, herpes was busy causing fear of the unknown, spreading across cities and countries like wildfire. Soon after, AIDS came to the rise and the world’s population sort of forgot about herpes. Sadly, the disease never left. Especially in the case of genital herpes, infected patients have been increasing in number since the 1970s. Today it has come to such a point, in the United States of America, one out of every five people has herpes, falling in the 12 and above age range.

Herpes type 2 is very different from type 1, which is also known as oral herpes, a condition that affects almost all children before they cross the age 5. Oral herpes gives rise to sores around the mouth region and on the lips, while genital herpes affects the body below the waist. Having type 1 herpes does not mean that you will certainly have genital herpes too. As experts explain, the two of them are separate diseases.

HerpesIn recent times, the media has been trying to raise awareness of herpes since it targets such a large portion of the human population. It is worst for youngsters, since they have a higher chance of contracting genital herpes. Studies and polls helped discover that over 40% of grade 9 students and more than 70% of high school students have sex, which is probably how the spread herpes to one another. What is upsetting is the fact that they do not know that they have acquired genital herpes, especially since there is a lack of symptoms on the body. As a matter of fact, out of all the people that have been diagnosed this year with herpes, only 10% were aware of genital herpes and its consequences.

Most individuals just assume that a fever or the flu has hit them, whenever they are being exposed to herpes. The primary sign/symptom of herpes are the sores and blisters, that people often mistaken for yeast infection, rashes or bug bite. The blisters could be rather painful, taking at last one week to reduce and disappear. Although individuals may feel guilty or upset later, they must understand that even physicians and doctors miss their case of herpes, sorely due to the lack of symptoms. The key is to approach a doctor who could help you with your problem. Now, this doctor could be your family doctor, a general physician, a gynaecologist or just a specialist. While there is a test to distinguish the two types of herpes, there are separate blood tests for both.

After getting infected, it takes about two week for the first outbreak to take place. From there on, the first year takes a little getting used to, with the recurrent outbreaks, the pain and all that extra work of taking care of the sores. Statistics show that women have a slightly higher percentage than men when it comes to the level of cases of herpes contraction. The mental effects are as bad as the physical ones; patients feel isolated, angry, betrayed, upset and lost. Even after all of this, many people are ready to dismiss herpes as an ever-increasing epidemic.

It has been noted that other sexually transmitted diseases are shadowed by AIDS, even though they are all serious too, requiring immediate medical attention. For instance, along with being incurable, herpes also appears as a threat to neonates. Expecting mothers could easily contract it and pass it on to their unborn foetus, causing him/her to have brain damage. The infant could also die to the virus.

Naturally, scientists are working hard to find a cure and a vaccine for herpes. This way, not only the herpes be cured, there will also be no more outbreaks, pain and blisters. Till a vaccine or a form of medication is found, patients are advised to take care of themselves and manage the outbreaks as best as they can. Moreover, the general public are encouraged to go in for herpes blood tests every now and then, since there is a large group of people who have herpes and do not even show it. This is highly risky and problematic for all people, since having any form of sexual contact would mean transferring the disease. Furthermore, this also proves to be scary for pregnant mothers.

Even though a vaccine has not been found, the treatment of genital herpes is being bettered day by day. It has also been heard that a drug that suppresses the virus shedding from people who are asymptomatic may be made in the near future. This will not only reduce the number of herpes patients, it will also give a ray of hope for all those asymptomatic herpes patients.

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Transferring Herpes To Your Unborn Child

Today, herpes type 1 and 2 are spreading among people at a high rate, understandably causing distress. As unfortunate as it is, pregnant women could very well transfer herpes to their new-born via the process of child birth. It is quite rare to transmit the condition to your new-born baby; just about 1000-2000 infants acquire it via childbirth each year. However, it is clear that the ordeal is not easy or acceptable. These neonates could be provided with antiviral drugs, which will keep any form of permanent damage away. However, the rest of the infants that acquire herpes are not that lucky. They face several grave problems such as mental retardation, neurological disorders, and in the worst cases, death.

A Few Quick Facts Related To Herpes And Pregnancy

  • You can transfer the virus to your new-born if you are having an outbreak during the process of labour;
  • If you have acquired herpes before getting pregnant, it is less likely for you to transmit the condition to your infant;
  • On the other hand, if you acquired herpes sometime during the latter half of your pregnancy period, there is a good chance of you transferring it onto your child;
  • In very rare cases, expecting mothers transmit the infection through the placenta during the first trimester itself. In such a scenario, there is a likelihood of this herpes virus causing terrifying birth defects or a miscarriage.

Some Ways You Could Prevent The Transmission Of The Infection To Your New-Born

  • Let us start at the base: Please be careful about whom are you having sexual intercourse with. With the increasing prevalence of herpes in the world now, there is a chance that your partner has oral or genital herpes. Therefore, it would be foolish to indulge in any form of sexual contact with this person, be it around the genitals or close to their mouth. There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a talk with them, assuring them that you do not have the condition, and clearing out whether or not they have it. As the phrase goes, better safe than sorry.
  • Even if you have sexual contact with an individual who has herpes, make sure to use latex condoms. While you will not be a 100% safe, the condoms still provide the best protection from contracting the disease from your partner.
  • Studies and polls have put a fact under spotlight: most expecting mothers put their infants at risk of catching the infection, only because they themselves do not know that they have herpes. This is why it is important that all women hear and learn about herpes, and try to figure out if they have the virus themselves.
  • Being aware alone is of no use either; there are several doctors and midwives who never consider the fact that the neonate may contract herpes. Hence, remind the fact to your midwife or obstetrician and ask them to take precautions accordingly.
  • For expecting mothers who could possibly transmit the infection to their new-born, a caesarean section is probably the most logical and safe thing to do.

Undergoing The Knife

Although midwives and doctors have been making use of this practice for over three decades, only now have we found proof that the best way to prevent a new-born from contracting herpes is by performing a Caesarean section on the pregnant mother. A study that appeared in an issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association proved this point. For this experiment, 202 expecting women who gave birth between the year 1982 and 1999, were observed. While 117 of these women delivered vaginally, the rest had the Caesarean section performed on themselves. Only ten of the neonates had contracted herpes, from which only one had been born via the Caesarean section.

As mentioned earlier, there is a better chance of you transmitting the virus if you are having an outbreak during delivery. This was proven when the mothers of the ten infants were among the 128 women who were having an outbreak during labour.

The study cleared out a few things for the researchers:

  • If the virus was present in the mother’s cervix, risk or transmission was high
  • Premature delivery proved to be a matter of concern too
  • Mothers who were facing the very first occurrence of herpes infection had a higher chance of passing it to their neonate.