Finding out you have genital herpes is no fun at all. Despite the fact that it is a very common ailment, and that around 1 in 5 people carry the virus, many sufferers are plagued with guilt, anxiety and a huge loss of self worth. This is mainly due to the taboo nature of the virus and the myth and rumors that surround it.

Having genital herpes does not make you dirty or tarnished. It does not make you a bad person, and it does not mean your social or sexual life is over. It's an annoying virus just like any other. And while there is no cure for herpes, it can be controlled, and outbreaks can be stopped, and you can live your life as if you never had it.

If you have genital herpes, you just need to take the right measures when outbreaks occur, and the right measures in between outbreaks. This can mean shorter, smaller and less painful outbreaks, and eventually lead to fewer and fewer outbreaks, then none at all.

The first step is to get a regular, effective treatment for the conditions. There is a wide range of prescription, natural and homeopathic medicines available, as well as dietary supplements and topical treatments that can also help. Finding what works for you may be a matter of trial and error, or it may be simply a matter of spending a few hours doing the research. Get online and you'll find plenty of information on what works and what doesn't. But remember, it mainly comes down to the individual, so what works for you, may not work for someone else. Keep trying and you'll eventually find the treatment that is perfect for you.

The next step if you have genital herpes is to make the appropriate lifestyle adjustments, and these mainly come down to diet, fitness and hygiene. Eat healthily, and avoid foods high in arginine, such as chocolate and nuts. Avoid fatty foods and food high in sugar. A regular lysine supplement (from any health food store) has been shown to be very effective too.

Fitness is important, as many people who have genital herpes find regular exercise can reduce the frequency of outbreaks. It also boosts the immune system and lowers stress, which is another big trigger for outbreaks.

Hygiene is the final important step. Stay clean and dry as much as possible, and try to bath at least two to three times a day, using warm water and a good antibacterial soap. Wear cotton underwear as opposed to synthetic materials, as these can trap moisture which can lead to outbreaks, or worsen them. During outbreaks bathe the affected area in warm salt water three or four times a day, and change underwear often as possible, probably two or three times a day.

If you have genital herpes and follow the above advice, you should be well on your way to controlling the nasty little virus, and will soon be able to get your life back on track.