6 Encouraging Facts About Your Herpes Diagnosis

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two main types: one that causes cold sores and one that causes genital sores.

Receiving a herpes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The condition is far more manageable than many people realize. 

At Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center, we believe in replacing fear with facts. That’s because when you're informed, you're empowered.

Take a moment as Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, shares six encouraging facts to remember if you’re diagnosed with herpes.

1. Herpes is common

Worldwide, over 1 in 5 people between the ages of 15 and 49 have genital herpes (HSV-2), and even more carry oral herpes (HSV-1). In the United States, as many as 80% of people have oral herpes, the strain that can give you cold sores.

Many people don’t even realize they have it, especially if their symptoms are mild or absent. 

The bottom line is that this isn’t a rare or shameful condition — it’s a widespread, manageable part of life for millions.

2. You can still have healthy relationships

Yes, you can date, marry, and have a fulfilling love life. Open communication and protection (like using condoms and avoiding intimacy during outbreaks) can drastically reduce the risk of transmission. 

Even better, many people with herpes have partners who never contract the virus.

3. Herpes is manageable with medication

While there isn’t a cure for genital herpes, daily antiviral medications can significantly reduce outbreaks and lower the risk of spreading the virus. When you take medication to prevent outbreaks, it’s called suppressive therapy.

These medications are safe, effective, and widely available.

If you have herpes, Dr. Bamba can recommend the right antiviral for you. Your specific medication regimen depends on whether you’re treating an initial outbreak or a recurrent one.

4. Herpes doesn’t affect your fertility or your long-term health

Unlike other STIs, herpes doesn’t damage your reproductive organs or impact your ability to have children. The caveat: you may need a C-section if you have an active flare-up when it’s time to give birth. This reduces the chance that you will spread the virus to your baby as they pass through the birth canal. Still, your diagnosis won’t preclude you from having children. 

Herpes also doesn’t lead to more serious illnesses in otherwise healthy individuals. While it’s a lifelong virus, it’s not life-threatening.

5. Outbreaks lessen over time

Your first outbreak tends to cause the most intense symptoms. Many people experience fewer and less severe outbreaks as time goes on. 

With good self-care, stress management, and medical support, it’s possible to go months or even years between flare-ups.

6. You’re more than a diagnosis

Herpes is a skin condition caused by a virus — it doesn’t define who you are, your worth, or your ability to live a vibrant life. 

At Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center, we’re here to support you with compassionate care, personalized treatment plans, and honest answers.

Get the answers you need

If you’ve been recently diagnosed or think you may have herpes, schedule a confidential appointment at Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center. 

We’re here to help you understand your options, manage your health, and move forward with confidence.

Prefer to chat? You can reach us at 443-493-7760.