Herpes Myths and Facts: Many Common Misconceptions

Herpes Myths and Facts: Many Common Misconceptions

Herpes is a common viral infection that millions of people live with. Yet there are many myths and misconceptions that create unnecessary fear, shame, and confusion. In this blog post, we debunk some of the most common myths about herpes – and give you the facts you can trust.

 

Myth 1: “You can only get herpes if you have many sex partners”

Fact: Herpes is extremely common – and easily transmitted, even during first sexual contact. The vast majority of people are infected with HSV-1 as children through kissing or sharing cutlery and glasses. So you can easily get herpes even if you have only had one partner.

Myth 2: “Herpes is a sign of poor hygiene”

Fact: Herpes is caused by a virus—not a lack of cleanliness. It is spread through skin-to-skin contact, especially when the virus is active. Even people with excellent hygiene can get infected. It’s about biology, not behavior.

Myth 3: “If you don’t have a wound, you can’t get infected”

Fact: Herpes can be transmitted even without visible symptoms – this is called asymptomatic viral shedding. This means that you can transmit the virus to others even if you do not have an outbreak. Using condoms and antiviral treatment can reduce the risk.

Myth 4: “Herpes is just a sexually transmitted disease”

Fact: HSV-1 typically causes cold sores on the lips and is not considered a classic sexually transmitted disease. HSV-2 is most often genital, but it is still a viral infection – not necessarily a disease you only get through sex. Herpes comes in both oral and genital forms.

Myth 5: “If I’m infected, I can’t have sex anymore”

Fact: Many people live a fully active sex life with herpes. Open communication, safe sex, and possibly antiviral medication can make the risk of infection very low. Having herpes does not mean you cannot have close, healthy relationships.

Myth 6: “Herpes is dangerous”

Fact: For the vast majority of people, herpes is not dangerous, but rather a chronic and recurring irritation. The greatest risk is in pregnant women with a first outbreak shortly before giving birth – but it can be managed medically.

Myth 7: “Only sores around the mouth are HSV-1, and only sores on the genitals are HSV-2”

Fact: This used to be true, but today up to half of genital herpes is caused by HSV-1 – especially due to increased oral sex. Therefore, a test is necessary to know which type you have.

Conclusion

Herpes is common – but surrounded by stigma. By understanding the facts and dispelling myths, we can reduce shame and promote openness. If you have herpes, you are not alone – and you have the right to both knowledge and dignity.