The use of a condom is essential to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. If you have any concerns, you should have an STD screening test. In the event of an infection, follow the treatment correctly and inform your sexual partners.
How is genital herpes transmitted?
Genital herpes is mainly transmitted when the vesicles (blisters) are present on the genitals or anus:
- during sexual relations without a condom (vaginal, anal and oral)
- during sexual caresses (direct contact with the skin when the small spots are present around the vulva, penis or anus)
- from mother to child, during birth
The virus is not present in the sperm.
Oral herpes (or cold sores), which is less severe than genital herpes, is less frequently transmitted from the mouth to the vulva, penis or anus.