Genital Herpes versus Genital Warts: The Low Down on Down Below

Genital Herpes versus Genital Warts: The Low Down on Down Below

Everyone knows what a sexually transmitted disease is, right? You might be surprised to find that genital herpes and genital warts are vastly confused and misunderstood. And yet, it is very common. Approximately 59% of Americans have been infected with Herpes Simplex 1, 16.2% with Herpes Simplex 2, and 50% with the human papillomavirus virus. So what exactly is the difference between these diseases?

A fever blister is not just a cold sore. Herpes is a virus that has two common forms, with Herpes Simplex 1 being the most infamous. Also known as oral herpes, it primarily affects the lip and mouth region. It is transmitted by activities such as oral sex, kissing, and sharing a toothbrush. HSV 1 can also infect the genital region.

Genital Herpes or Herpes Simplex 2 (HSV 2) is the type that is most often associated with social stigma. It is sexually transmitted by vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse. It causes blisters in the genital and perianal region. The truth is that there is little difference between Herpes Simplex 1 and Herpes Simplex 2. The viruses DNA structure are very similar. The biggest variation appears to be in what body parts it prefers the face or the genitals.

The human papillomavirus virus (hpv) causes genital warts. It is comprised of several different strains that cause a range of symptoms. Warts are cauliflower like growths that are a variety of shapes and sizes. Bumps on the penis (or bumps on the vagina) that are red or flesh colored may be genital warts. While uncomfortable, they do not pose much of a health risk.

In women, HPV infections can pose a special concern. Some strains of the HPV virus types do not cause warts, but instead create pre-cancerous lesions on the cervix and inner vaginal wall. If left untreated, these lesions can develop into full-blown cancer. The cellular changes that hpv causes are detected with pap smears and colposcopy. HPV is the cause of 100% of all cervical cancers. It can also cause cancer of the penis in men.

HPV is the most widespread sexually transmitted disease. You do not catch it through casual contact; it requires genital-to-genital contact or intercourse. Women who have hpv often never tell anyone because of the shame associated with it. This can greatly increase the opportunity for the disease to spread from partners who don't know that they have been exposed. Here are a few important tips for preventing herpes and hpv:

Use condoms

Limit the number of sexual partners that you have. Scientific studies show that people with multiple sexual partners have a higher occurrence of cervical cancer.

If a partner has hpv, genital warts, or herpes consult with a physician as soon as possible to discuss the likelihood of contracting and spreading the viruses.

Millions of people live with the fact that they have herpes or hpv. It does not mean that they are any less worthy of happiness and fulfillment than those without a STD. There are support groups and dating sites that can help people with these diseases stay active and involved. Visit Love, H Style for more information and important resources.

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