Replies to '07/23 Ask the Doctors'

 First of all I wanted to say that I am sorry that you are going through this.  I would think that you would have had an outbreak by now if you did have herpes.  At least from what I know about that disease, which isn't too much.  Wouldn't you have noticed it on him, unless has not had an outbreak.  Not sure how it works.  But to be on the safe side I would not have sex at all when he has an outbreak of course.  If you do have it then I do not know if using a condom at this point would help.  But I would anyways to be on the safe side.  Good luck!  I know this must be devistating.

You need to make an appointment and talk with your ob/gyn.  First of all I can't believe after 24 years of marriage this is the first you are hearing about him having genital herpes.  Perhaps it can lie dormant for a quarter of a century then flare up.  These are questions for your doctor.  As for protection- even condoms are not adequate protection during an outbreak.  Get into a support group, ask questions, read, go on line- but most of all talk to your doctor.  This is your body and you deserve to know all the facts.  Good luck to you.