I take antiviral medication.
How can I get less outbreaks?
I take antiviral medication only when I have an outbreak.
These outbreaks are frequent and/or severe.
I would like to find out how I can get less outbreaks.
When you take antiviral medication to treat each outbreak, this is called episodic therapy. The aim is to reduce the symptoms and signs of the outbreak, such as genital itching, tingling, rash, blisters or sores, or a vaginal discharge.
Episodic therapy is a good option if you don't get many outbreaks in a year, if they are not very severe, or if they don't stress you out too much.
Alternatively, taking antiviral medication every day might be a better option if:
- You get a lot of outbreaks each year
- The outbreaks are painful
- You're sick of getting outbreaks at inappropriate times (such as when you're in a new relationship, during exams, during your monthly period or at other times when you're stressed out)
- You're fed-up with being reminded each time you have an outbreak that you have herpes.
Taking antiviral medication every day is called suppressive or preventative therapy and this can reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
If you think this option suits you better, discuss it with your doctor and explain that you would like less outbreaks. Your doctor can provide you with a 'Less Outbreaks Information Kit' and a medication plan that is right for you.