Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Question
Published: October 8, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I kissed a girl yesterday I didnt know very well. I mean I knew her, but I didnt KNOW her like I should. It was a "I like her, she likes me" spur of the moment thing. Anyways, then I hear from everyone she is dirty, as in sexually, but she told me she was a virgin. I was reading one of your articles about herpes and I have alot of the symptoms. What should I do? How can I talk to her?
Signed: Kissed A Girl Yesterday - Symptoms Of Herpes?
Dear Kissed A Girl Yesterday - Symptoms Of Herpes?,
Herpes can be transmitted from mouth to mouth. If a person has herpes, they can transmit the virus to others just before, or during an outbreak. It's unlikely (though not impossible) that she gave herpes to you if you didn't see any sores on her mouth.However, if you're experiencing symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor. If you do not have a doctor and you live in northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475. If you live elsewhere, get in touch with your local adolescent health center or clinic, or Planned Parenthood.
It sounds like part of your concern is about what you have heard about this girl. We're sure you know that people often spread falsehoods about other people's sex lives. What this girl chooses to do is her business, and referring to her as "dirty" is unkind no matter how many partners she has had or what she's done with them. Therefore, we applaud you for wanting to talk to her, but if you do decide to approach her, we hope you will do it with tact, especially since she is someone you like.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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