Let’s talk about herpes! Between 60%-80% of the population has been exposed to the herpes virus. Genital herpes caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) is generally contained to the area around the genitals, vulva, vagina, penis, scrotum, and anal rectal area. Oral herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) and generally occurs on the oral mucosa; the lips, around the mouth, and even the nose. But the two herpes viruses can be transmitted between their respective areas and not necessarily in a sexual way - they do not discriminate! 

Diagnosis

If you have an active legion, the simplest way to diagnose it would be with a swab. However, some people who are exposed to the herpes virus will never actually get an outbreak. We can test blood and if there has been an exposure, immunoglobulins against that virus are present.

Symptoms

Symptoms that are consistent with a herpes outbreak include:

1. A tingling or burning where you've previously had lesions or they are...