So Many Questions???

[Thissucksalot]

Ok I just found out and I am not handling this well. I have so many questions. Start with the most important.

I am a single dad and don't see my kids but once a week. What about my kids??? Can I give to them just by touching them??? Can they use the same towel as me??? Can I touch them when I am having an OB?? How can I be a dad and make sure they are safe?????

My life was going down hill fast, divorced, lost my kids and now this. How the hell am I going to handle this?

[Caliope]

For starters calm down if you can and breathe. The initial shock is pretty devastating. It will take a while to get your mind around this and it's okay to give yourself some time. No need to make any life altering changes or big decisions until you are good and ready.

I don't know what kind of infection you have so I'll be general. If you have oral herpes coldsores you don't want to kiss your kids or anyone else while you have an active ob.

If it is a genital infection you can only transmit it to others if they are touching the infected area. This includes oral as well as genital contact.

As long as you practice good hygiene and keep your hands washed each and every time you use the restroom or touch your genitals you should be able to reduce the chances of transmission.

I wouldn't let the kids use the same towel right after you just make sure you immediately put any towels or wash cloths that come into contact with your infection in the laundry. The shower itself or other surfaces aren't a major concern - might get some clorox wipes for those surfaces and wipe stuff down before the kids get there.

let us know if we can help.

[bluefrog]

thissucksalot

perfect name! i am a single mom of 4 who was just diagnosed and i went through the same dread as you regarding my kids. the doc said i have hsv1 and 2, but i have never ever had a cold sore, so i am assuming that both are genital. i always wash my hands, always did anyway, but i do stress about the soap toothpaste container etc. it will get easier for you, promise. i still have not totally "embraced" this yet, and i have good days and terrible days (diagnosed this past may). we are all in this together; keep up with this site and you will be fine.

[gutted.]

you dont need to go washing any surafces down or oat like that, and the chances from using a towel are minimal..

but to be sure

put used towels straight into the washing basket...

wash your hands after touching your willy.

that should suffice no problem.