But it can’t be Herpes!!!!!!! Misperceptions

Given the prevalence of herpes in a normal gynecologic population, I feel it most important to address this problem! 

One of the most concerning problems a patient presents with is a vaginal sore, never noticed before, that turns out to be herpes! The diagnosis of herpes can lead her, especially if she has been in a longstanding monogamous relationship, to have erratic thoughts and feelings! The goal of this blog is to clarify misnomers about herpes and help our patients better understand what they are potentially dealing with.

Large studies have demonstrated that 16-20% of women ages 14-49 are seropositive for herpes (blood test demonstrating a previous infection with herpes) and more than 75% of these patients never had any previous symptoms.