Genital herpes in men is caused by unprotected sexual activity, promiscuous behavior, and lack of education. It can also affect young men, those in lower socioeconomic classes, and those with autoimmune diseases. Prevention is important as it is incurable.
Genital herpes is a chronic virus that can cause recurring bouts of rashes and blisters on the sexual organs. The risks of genital herpes in men generally relate to sexual behavior, although some men can get the disease through other means. Understanding the risks of genital herpes in men can help both men and women take precautions to prevent infection or get treatment if symptoms occur. Prevention is important, as genital herpes is an incurable condition that will require careful management if contracted.
The most common risks of genital herpes in men include unprotected sexual activity. Having intercourse, oral sex, or anal sex without a barrier contraceptive can greatly increase your risk of getting or passing on the disease. Health experts typically suggest condom use as a good way to reduce the risk of vaginal or anal intercourse, but these cannot eliminate the risk entirely. Men can also get the disease by having or receiving unprotected oral sex from an infected male or female partner, which can also pose a somewhat reduced risk if barrier contraceptives are used. Oral contraceptives, such as birth control pills, will not reduce your risk of getting or passing on genital herpes.
A second important factor that can increase the risks of genital herpes in men is promiscuous sexual behavior. People who have multiple partners in a short period of time may not be aware that they have herpes, making them more likely to engage in unprotected sexual activity, thus becoming a conduit for infection. Additionally, those who engage in casual sex may be less likely to ask questions about sexual history, so they may not be aware that they are exposed to the infection. One of the best ways to reduce your chances of getting genital herpes is to abstain from sexual activity unless both partners are monogamous and have not been tested for the disease.
According to scientific research, some additional factors can also increase the risks of genital herpes in men. Young men are generally more likely to get the disease than older men, and those in the lowest socioeconomic classes may also be at higher risks in some regions. Those who are not educated about the disease and prevention methods may also have slightly higher risks, since they may not be able to recognize the symptoms or know the precautions. Men who have autoimmune diseases may be at higher risk, as their system may be less able to fight off the disease if encountered. Finally, male babies can contract the disease during the birth process if the mother has genital herpes.
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