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Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
Should I tell my mum I have an STD?
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I have genital herpes, im worried to tell my mother, i think she may be dissapointed in me as i am only 16. Should i tell her? -
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Women's Health Queensland Wide provides free health information for Queensland women. View Profile
Herpes is a very common virus. It is estimated that at least 1 in 8 people have herpes. For this reason it is also very common for teenagers and young adults to come in contact with it. Many people who carry herpes don’t get symptoms so may not realise they have genital herpes, and can pass it on to sexual partners through direct genital skin to skin contact (or through oral sex).
It is probably more important to tell any potential sexual partner, that you have herpes. In addition, abstaining from sexual activity when you are aware the virus is active, and using condoms at all other times, will reduce the risk of transmitting the virus.
If you experience ongoing or frequent symptoms, you may wish to speak to your doctor or a sexual health clinic about suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce outbreaks and reduce transmission.
Kirsty
Women’s Health Educator
Health Information Line, Women’s Health Queensland Wide
Women living in Queensland can also call our Health Information Line - a free information and referral service for Queensland women - on 3839 9988 or 1800 017 676 (toll free outside Brisbane).
Please note that all health information provided by Women’s Health Queensland Wide is subject to this disclaimer
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