Many people are surprised to learn that once you contract genital herpes, this virus is actually alive in your body for the rest of your life. While some people may never or rarely be bothered by outbreaks of the sores that a symptoms of genital herpes, others have outbreaks much more frequently, such as six times per year and even more. It is therefore absolutely important that you understand everything there is about genital herpes protection. If you have this condition yourself, keep in mind that you can also spread it to a partner even when you're not experiencing outbreaks. They too deserve all the genital herpes protection that can be offered to them.

It's interesting that over the years the phrase "safe sex" has been replaced with the term "safer sex." This is because there is no such thing as sexual activity that is completely safe, and this is imperative to understand when talking about genital herpes protection. Even if you engage in sexual activity that does not necessarily include intercourse, you still need to be concerned with protection. Many have outbreaks of herpes on not just their genitals but also their thighs and their mouth, depending on their sexual practices.

Practicing safer sex is an important part of genital herpes protection. Use a condom each and every time you engage in sexual activity. Be aware that oral sex can have you contract this disease, and this is true for both men and women. If you have genital herpes, take your medication as prescribed but remember that medications do not replace safer sex practices.