Precautions:
Women with genital herpes may be more likely to get cancer of the cervix. Therefore, it is very important that Pap tests be taken at least once a year to check for cancer. Cervical cancer can be cured if found and treated early.

If your symptoms do not improve within one week, or if they become worse, check with your doctor. The areas affected by genital herpes or shingles should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Also, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the sores (blisters).

Herpes infection of the genitals can be caught from or spread to your partner during any sexual activity. Although you may get herpes even though your sexual partner has no symptoms, the infection is more likely to spread if sores are present. This is true until the sores are completely healed and the scabs have fallen off. The use of a condom may help prevent the spread of herpes. However, spermicidal jelly or a diaphragm will not prevent the spread of herpes. Therefore, it is best to avoid any sexual activity if either you or your partner has any symptoms of herpes. It is also important to remember that acylovir will not keep you from spreading herpes to others.