HERPES

What do I do if I suspect I’ve caught herpes?

Dear Dr. Amy:

Hello Amy. I am a 16 year old male who has a good outlook on life but a nearly hopeless feeling now. About 2 months ago I had unprotected sex with a friend of mine. The next morning I noticed I had a rash, but I wasn’t sure exactly what it was. After a few days the rash began to receed, but little yellowish/white sores appeared. Until about 2 weeks ago, I had absolutely NO idea what it was, but it persisted to stay with me. I saw the girl I believe gave it to me with her best friend (a good friend of mine), in a store her best friend told me the girl I slept with has herpes, but didn’t sound to serious about it. I told two of my really good friends about it, they both said they have something similar, so I figured it was just a male adolescent thing. One of them is a virgin and the other has only slept with two girls who were also virgins. I am worried about what I should do, the infection doesn’t seem to bother me except when it itches. If you could tell me what you think it may be or what you think I should do, that would be great. On a side note my whole life has been nothing but stress, especially the last few months, I have been having a lot of family problems. Thanks a lot. 
Sincerely, Lost in LaLa Land

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Dr. Amy’s Response:

Dear Lost:

Contrary to your friends’ diagnosis, rashes and little yellowish/white sores are not a “male adolescent thing”. What is more typical of adolescence are the questions, emotions, and rollar coastering that you are experiencing as well as your trust in your friends views and opinions. It is admirable and sensible that you have sought out the advice of a professional.

If you have an infection, you need to see a physician-that is the only accurate way of finding out what your symptoms mean. Your friend who casually noted that the girl you slept with had herpes may lead you to believe that herpes is not serious. At present, herpes is an incurable disease that can be spread through sexual contact. While sex is a wonderful and enjoyable experience to share with a caring partner, it also carries a lot of responsibility. One of them is to be aware of safe sex practices and to use them to protect yourself and your partner.

You mention that right now you are under a lot of stress. You can eliminate the stress of wondering what is wrong by seeing your doctor. I know it is difficult right now to maintain your positive outlook: taking care of your body is a step in getting you back on track.

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