How To Be Supportive Accidentally getting a girl pregnant is probably the last thing you ever expected — or wanted — at this time in your life. However, here you are, reeling from the news that the woman you have slept with is pregnant with your baby. It does not matter whether this woman is your wife, a long-term girlfriend, a casual partner or even a one-night fling. As the father of her baby, you must take responsibility for your actions. Both of you made the adult decision to have sex with each other, and now you must face the consequences together. For many men, dealing with an unplanned pregnancy can seem like the end of their life as they know it. This doesn’t have to be the case. You and the woman you have impregnated with always have options for your unplanned pregnancy, but it’s important that you discuss this situation in detail before moving forward. If you’re asking, “She is pregnant — what do I do and how do I talk to her about it?” find some tips below for this important conversation. 1. Take a Deep Breath. People often wonder how to deal with an unplanned pregnancy. For men and women alike, it’s important to stay calm. An unplanned pregnancy is a frightening and overwhelming situation; you may be feeling angry at yourself and her, worried about your future, and completely unsure of what to do. Remember that you are in this journey together. Do not take your feelings out on each other; take a deep breath and try to approach this circumstance as a team. You may be reading this article after the expectant mother told you about her pregnancy — and you may be ashamed of how you acted. Rather than looking at the situation rationally, you may have jumped to emotional conclusions and said things you didn’t mean. Think about how your reaction may have affected her. She is probably just as frightened as you, and if you responded negatively, it likely didn’t help the circumstances. If this is the case, take responsibility for your actions, apologize and give yourselves another chance to discuss what to do about your unplanned pregnancy. 2. Don’t Make it All About You. When you first learn about accidentally getting a girl pregnant, your thoughts will first go to how this will affect your life: I need to get a job, I’m going to have to quit school, I’m going to have to cancel my traveling plans. While it’s perfectly normal to focus on how this pregnancy will affect you, remember that it will affect the expectant mother, too — even more so, as she is the one to physically experience the pregnancy. If you choose to focus on yourself, she will understandably feel abandoned and unimportant in this situation. This news of an unexpected pregnancy can be devastating, but remember that you are both affected by this situation — and you should approach it as a united front. 3. Ask Her How She’s Feeling. On the same note, taking the mother’s feelings into account can be done by simply starting with a simple question: How are you feeling? This question opens up the conversation for her to lead moving forward. It’s an empathetic query that allows her to express her complicated emotions, her initial thoughts and ask for your opinion, too. This will give you the chance to collect your own thoughts (as long as you listen to her answer at the same time!) and understand better where she is at in her decision process and what she desires from you as the man in her unplanned pregnancy. Starting with a non-judgmental, open-ended question will help inspire a positive conversation, rather than one that points blame at each other and results in no productive solutions. 4. Understand What Your Options Are. Whether a woman has indicated she has made a choice about her unplanned pregnancy or she is still deciding, it’s crucial that you understand your unplanned pregnancy options, too. Men dealing with unplanned pregnancy have just as much input in the decision as the woman but, keep in mind that because a woman will be the one carrying the child, she will have the ultimate decision. If you’re looking for unexpected pregnancy advice for men, consider these questions about each of your options moving forward: Parenting: Can you afford to raise a child? Are you ready to take on a new job or extra shifts to afford this new member of your family? Are you ready to put aside some of your personal dreams for the best interest of your child? Are you prepared to marry this woman? Or to co-parent this child without getting married? Are you willing to take parenting classes to learn more about raising a child? Abortion: Will you pitch in to help the mother afford the cost of an abortion? Will you be there to support the woman through her initial appointment and her abortion procedure? Adoption: Do you understand how adoption works today? Are you prepared to legally sign away your parental rights to your child? How involved do you want to be in the process: in helping to choose a family, having a relationship with your child as they grow up, supporting the mother through her pregnancy, etc.? Are you willing to speak with the expectant mother to an adoption counselor? Only after you fully understand your options can you have a productive conversation about what to do after accidentally getting a girl pregnant. 5. Create a Plan Together. It takes two to cause an unplanned pregnancy — and you two should both be involved in the situation moving forward. As tempting as it can be to walk away, it’s important that you man up, take responsibility for your actions and work with the expectant mother to create a plan that’s best for you both. You both should answer these questions: Where do you see yourself in five years? Will raising a baby interfere with those plans? Do you see this relationship lasting? Are you ready to commit to a long-term connection by having a baby together? What are your gut reactions to finding out about this unplanned pregnancy? What can you do to help each other through this process? It’s crucial you answer these questions and have an open conversation before creating a plan. That way, you can ensure that both your and the woman’s needs and wants are addressed — creating a more positive, cooperative path moving forward. It can be a difficult situation for men dealing with an unplanned pregnancy if the woman chooses a path they do not agree with. If this is your situation, honestly try to see the situation from her perspective. Explain why you would prefer she choose other paths — and offer up support. For example, if you are against abortion but do not wish to support her through her pregnancy or childbirth, you can see where she might not take your opinion into account. Remember this: The decision is ultimately up to the woman who will carry the pregnancy for nine months. It is your duty to support her, whatever she chooses. 6. Give Her the Support She Wants. Once a woman has made her choice, move forward by asking her what support she needs from you. Whether she wants you intimately involved in her abortion, adoption, pregnancy or parenting (or not), offer your support and respect her wishes. She may wish for you to be there during her doctor’s appointments or have you be involved in the adoption process. If she chooses to parent, she may want you to have a presence in your child’s life. Keep in mind, as a biological father, you will likely be legally required to pay child support if you do not wish to be involved in your child’s life. It can be difficult to overcome your personal wishes in an unplanned pregnancy, but take responsibility and be there to assist the expectant mother however you can. 7. Learn from Your Experience. Whatever else results from you accidentally getting a girl pregnant, you will learn life lessons. Take these to heart to avoid another concerning situation like this. Always use multiple forms of birth control to avoid unwanted pregnancy, and maybe think more about the potential ramifications of sex before you engage in this action. We’re not here to encourage you to abandon all casual sex; just take more precautions before doing so. This experience may also teach you a bit about yourself and what you want in your life. Do you really wish to be a parent? When do you want to have a child? What do you want to accomplish before another pregnancy?

Sex Tool Communication Talking with your partner about condoms and birth control Talking with your partner about preventing STDs and unplanned pregnancy is one of the most important things you can do to protect your sexual health. Why do I need to talk about condoms and birth control? Talking about protecting your sexual health is an important part of being sexually active. It’s normal to feel nervous about bringing up condoms and birth control, but you can totally handle this. And imagine how much more difficult it would be to bring up your STD or unplanned pregnancy. If you have penis-in-vagina (vaginal) sex, it’s really important to use both a condom and another form of birth control (like the pill or the IUD). That way you’re protected from both pregnancy and STDs. So talk about both. If you have anal sex, you need to use a condom and lubricant. For oral sex, use a condom or a dental dam. Using all this stuff is sometimes called “safer sex,” since you’re lowering your risk of pregnancy and STDs. Talking about STDs is just as important as talking about preventing pregnancy. And just because you’re not having vaginal sex doesn’t mean you don’t have to talk - STDs are a possibility with any kind of sex. If you’re not sure what to say, practice beforehand. Then, choose a good time to talk (not in the heat of the moment). If your partner refuses to use protection, then they aren’t showing respect for you or your health. How do I talk about safer sex? DO Find a time when you’re relaxed and can focus. Use “I” statements — like, “I want us to protect each other,” instead of, “You need to get on birth control.” Remind them that safer sex benefits BOTH of you. Clearly state that you want to use protection if you’re going to have sex. No protection? No sex. Tell them that using protection will allow both of you to enjoy sex more, since neither of you will have to be worrying about STDs or unplanned pregnancy. Use positive language. For example: “I want to talk with you about this because I care about you.” Make sure the conversation is a 2-way street — so talk AND listen. Try to understand their point of view and ask questions. Work together to get the protection you need. This means talking about how to get the protection you need and who’s going to pay for it, both now and in the future. DON’T Start the conversation when you’re about to have sex — that can get awkward (or a problem if you don’t have the protection you need with you). Talk about it way before you have sex, so you can make sure you’re doing all you can for protection (like going to the doctor and getting a really effective birth control method if you’re having vaginal sex). Assume they don’t like condoms. Most people use condoms, so they’ve probably thought about it, too. Saying you’re into condoms might make them more comfortable saying that they are, too. Be judgmental, aggressive, or controlling. Assume that using condoms means they’re cheating on you. People use condoms because they care about themselves and each other.

Going To The Clinic You might feel embarrassed, but there's no need – the staff at these clinics are used to testing for all kinds of infections. It's their job and they won't judge you. They should do their best to explain everything to you and make you feel at ease. You can make an appointment to go to an STI clinic, or sometimes there's a drop-in clinic, which means you can just turn up without the need for an appointment. You might feel embarrassed, but there's no need – the staff at these clinics are used to testing for all kinds of infections. It's their job and they won't judge you. They should do their best to explain everything to you and make you feel at ease. You can go to a sexual health clinic whether you're male or female, whatever your age, regardless of whether or not you have STI symptoms. If you're under 16, the service is still confidential and the clinic won't tell your parents. Local Clinics

Hepatitis B Hepatitis B can be a serious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis B virus. What is hepatitis? “Hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis. However, hepatitis is most often caused by a virus. In the United States, the most common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The only way to know if you have Hepatitis B is to get tested. What is Hepatitis B? Hepatitis B can be a serious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis B virus. Acute Hepatitis B refers to a short-term infection that occurs within the first 6 months after someone is infected with the virus. The infection can range in severity from a mild illness with few or no symptoms to a serious condition requiring hospitalization. Some people, especially adults, are able to clear, or get rid of, the virus without treatment. People who clear the virus become immune and cannot get infected with the Hepatitis B virus again. Chronic Hepatitis B refers to a lifelong infection with the Hepatitis B virus. The likelihood that a person develops a chronic infection depends on the age at which someone becomes infected. Up to 90% of infants infected with the Hepatitis B virus will develop a chronic infection. In contrast, about 5% of adults will develop chronic Hepatitis B. Over time, chronic Hepatitis B can cause serious health problems, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death. How is Hepatitis B spread? The Hepatitis B virus is spread when blood, semen, or other body fluids from an infected person enters the body of someone who is not infected. The virus can be spread through: • Sex with an infected person. Among adults, Hepatitis B is often spread through sexual contact. • Injection drug use. Sharing needles, syringes, and any other equipment to inject drugs with someone infected with Hepatitis B can spread the virus. • Outbreaks. While uncommon, poor infection control has resulted in outbreaks of Hepatitis B in healthcare settings. • Birth. Hepatitis B can be passed from an infected mother to her baby at birth. Worldwide, most people with Hepatitis B were infected with the virus as an infant. Hepatitis B is not spread through breastfeeding, sharing eating utensils, hugging, kissing, holding hands, coughing, or sneezing. Unlike some forms of hepatitis, Hepatitis B is also not spread by contaminated food or water. What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B? Many people with Hepatitis B do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. If symptoms occur, they can include: fever, feeling tired, not wanting to eat, upset stomach, throwing up, dark urine, grey-colored stool, joint pain, and yellow skin and eyes. When do symptoms occur? If symptoms occur with an acute infection, they usually appear within 3 months of exposure and can last up to 6 months. If symptoms occur with chronic Hepatitis B, they can take years to develop and can be a sign of advanced liver disease. How would you know if you have Hepatitis B? The only way to know if you have Hepatitis B is to get tested. Blood tests can determine if a person has been infected and cleared the virus, is currently infected, or has never been infected. Who should get tested for Hepatitis B and why? CDC develops recommendations for testing based upon a variety of different factors. Here is a list of people who should get tested. The results will help determine the next best steps for vaccination or medical care. All pregnant women are routinely tested for Hepatitis B. If a woman has Hepatitis B, timely vaccination can help prevent the spread of the virus to her baby. Household and sexual contacts of people with Hepatitis B are at risk for getting Hepatitis B. Those who have never had Hepatitis B can benefit from vaccination. People born in certain parts of the world that have increased rates of Hepatitis B. Testing helps identify those who are infected so that they can receive timely medical care. People with certain medical conditions should be tested, and get vaccinated if needed. This includes people with HIV infection, people who receive chemotherapy and people on hemodialysis. People who inject drugs are at increased risk for Hepatitis B but testing can tell if someone is infected or could benefit from vaccination to prevent getting infected with the virus. Men who have sex with men have higher rates of Hepatitis B. Testing can identify unknown infections or let a person know that they can benefit from vaccination. How is Hepatitis B treated? For those with acute Hepatitis B, doctors usually recommend rest, adequate nutrition, fluids, and close medical monitoring. Some people may need to be hospitalized. People living with chronic Hepatitis B should be evaluated for liver problems and monitored on a regular basis. Treatments are available that can slow down or prevent the effects of liver disease. Can Hepatitis B be prevented? Yes. The best way to prevent Hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated. The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a series of 3 shots over a period of 6 months. The entire series is needed for long-term protection. Who should get vaccinated against Hepatitis B? All infants are routinely vaccinated for Hepatitis B at birth, which has led to dramatic declines of new Hepatitis B cases in the US and many parts of the world. The vaccine is also recommended for people living with someone infected with Hepatitis B, travelers to certain countries, and healthcare and public safety workers exposed to blood. People with high-risk sexual behaviors, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, and people who have certain medical conditions, including diabetes, should talk to their doctor about getting vaccinated. < Previous Next >

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious condition, in women. 1 in 8 women with a history of PID experience difficulties getting pregnant. You can prevent PID if you know how to protect yourself. What is PID? Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs. It is a complication often caused by some STDs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other infections that are not sexually transmitted can also cause PID. How do I get PID? You are more likely to get PID if you: Have an STD and do not get treated; Have more than one sex partner; Have a sex partner who has sex partners other than you; Have had PID before; Are sexually active and are age 25 or younger; Douche; Use an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control. However, the small increased risk is mostly limited to the first three weeks after the IUD is placed inside the uterus by a doctor. How can I reduce my risk of getting PID? The only way to avoid STIs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting PID: Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and has negative STD test results; Using latex condoms the right way every time you have sex. How do I know if I have PID? There are no tests for PID. A diagnosis is usually based on a combination of your medical history, physical exam, and other test results. You may not realize you have PID because your symptoms may be mild, or you may not experience any symptoms. However, if you do have symptoms, you may notice Pain in your lower abdomen; Fever; An unusual discharge with a bad odor from your vagina; Pain and/or bleeding when you have sex; Burning sensation when you urinate; or Bleeding between periods. Promptly see a doctor if you think you or your sex partner(s) have or were exposed to an STI; Promptly see a doctor if you have any genital symptoms such as an unusual sore, a smelly discharge, burning when peeing, or bleeding between periods. Get a test for chlamydia every year if you are sexually active and younger than 25 years of age. Have an honest and open talk with your health care provider if you are sexually active and ask whether you should be tested for other STIs. Can PID be cured? Yes, if PID is diagnosed early, it can be treated. However, treatment won’t undo any damage that has already happened to your reproductive system. The longer you wait to get treated, the more likely it is that you will have complications from PID. While taking antibiotics, your symptoms may go away before the infection is cured. Even if symptoms go away, you should finish taking all of your medicine. Be sure to tell your recent sex partner(s), so they can get tested and treated for STIs, too. It is also very important that you and your partner both finish your treatment before having any kind of sex so that you don’t re-infect each other. You can get PID again if you get infected with an STI again. Also, if you have had PID before, you have a higher chance of getting it again. What happens if I don’t get treated? If diagnosed and treated early, the complications of PID can be prevented. Some of the complications of PID are: Formation of scar tissue both outside and inside the fallopian tubes that can lead to tubal blockage; Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb); Infertility (inability to get pregnant); Long-term pelvic/abdominal pain. < Previous Next >

confidentiality learn more Family planning/sexual and reproductive health (ORS 109.610, ORS 109.640) Minors of ANY AGE are allowed to access birth control-related information and services as well as testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV, without parental consent. This means no one will tell your parents and you do not have to have their permission. What about consent to sex? Oregon law does not give individuals the ability to consent to sex until the age of 18; however, there are a few important points to consider. Sexual activity is a normal part of development, and according to the 2009 Oregon Healthy Teens Survey of 11th grade students: • Forty-eight percent have had sexual intercourse. • Of those, 58 percent reported using a condom. Ensuring that young adults have proper resources and information on sexual activity is important for them to make healthy choices. insurance and beyond If you are covered under your parents insurance plan and you want to keep your visit to the clinic to yourself, you can go to Coos Health and Wellness, Waterfall Community Clinic , Waterfall Community Clinic- School Based and Coast Community Health Clinic with little to no charge. Learn more about what free services are available here . These services are available as mandated by: "House Bill 3391 , also known as the Reproductive Health Equity Act, is a bill that provides for expanded coverage for some Oregonians to access free reproductive health services, especially those who, in the past, may have not been eligible for coverage of these services. It also provides protections for the continuation of reproductive health services with no cost sharing, such as co-pays or payments toward deductibles, and prohibits discrimination in the provision of reproductive health services." learn more

Cost Of Condoms and Birth Control They are A LOT Cheaper than having a baby... Birth Control: Prices vary depending on whether you have health insurance, or if you qualify for Medicaid or other government programs that cover the cost of birth control pills. For most brands, 1 pill pack lasts for 1 month, and each pack can cost anywhere from $0-$50. But they’re totally free with most health insurance plans, or if you qualify for some government programs. Condoms: Affordable or free condoms are often available at health centers, family planning clinics, your local health department, community centers, college health centers, or your doctor’s office.

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Safer Sex “Safer sex” refers to anything we do to lower our risk — and our partners’ risk — of sexually transmitted infections. Some people call it “safe sex,” but this isn’t accurate — no type of sex with a partner can be guaranteed to be 100 percent safe. Many people with sexually transmitted infections experience no symptoms, so people are not always aware that they have them. And unintended pregnancy can happen — although rarely — with the best use of birth control. The most important way to reduce the risk of infection is for partners to avoid exchanging body fluids. The fluids to be most careful about are blood, ejaculate, pre-ejaculate, vaginal fluids, and the discharge from sores caused by sexually transmitted infections. It’s also important to avoid touching sores or growths that are caused by sexually transmitted infections. Here are a few examples of safer sex practices: using latex or internal condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse having oral sex instead of unprotected vaginal or anal intercourse using a latex condom to cover the penis for oral sex using a Sheer Glyde dam, cut-open condom, or plastic wrap to cover the vulva or anus for oral sex practicing forms of outercourse such as kissing, mutual masturbation, or body rubbing with clothes on

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Genital Herpes Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that any sexually active person can get. Most people with the virus don’t have symptoms. Even without signs of the disease, herpes can still be spread to sex partners. What is Genital Herpes? Genital herpes is an STD caused by two types of viruses. The viruses are called herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). What is Oral herpes? Oral herpes is usually caused by HSV-1 and can result in cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth. However, most people do not have any symptoms. Most people with oral herpes were infected during childhood or young adulthood from non-sexual contact with saliva. Is there a link between genital herpes and oral herpes? Oral herpes caused by HSV-1 can be spread from the mouth to the genitals through oral sex. This is why some cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-1. How common is genital herpes? Genital herpes is common in the United States. More than one out of every six people aged 14 to 49 years have genital herpes. How is genital herpes spread? You can get genital herpes by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the disease. If you do not have herpes, you can get infected if you come into contact with the herpes virus in: A herpes sore; Saliva (if your partner has an oral herpes infection) or genital secretions (if your partner has a genital herpes infection); Skin in the oral area if your partner has an oral herpes infection, or skin in the genital area if your partner has a genital herpes infection. You can get herpes from a sex partner who does not have a visible sore or who may not know he or she is infected. It is also possible to get genital herpes if you receive oral sex from a sex partner who has oral herpes. You will not get herpes from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools, or from touching objects around you such as silverware, soap, or towels. If you have additional questions about how herpes is spread, consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider. 85% of adults have had oral sex. Is it safer? How can I reduce my risk of getting genital herpes? The only way to avoid STDs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting genital herpes: Be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who is not infected with an STD (e.g., a partner who has been tested and has negative STD test results); Using latex condoms the right way every time you have sex. Be aware that not all herpes sores occur in areas that are covered by a latex condom. Also, herpes virus can be released (shed) from areas of the skin that do not have a visible herpes sore. For these reasons, condoms may not fully protect you from getting herpes. If you are in a relationship with a person known to have genital herpes, you can lower your risk of getting genital herpes if: Your partner takes an anti-herpes medication every day. This is something your partner should discuss with his or her doctor. You avoid having vaginal, anal, or oral sex when your partner has herpes symptoms (i.e., when your partner is having an outbreak). I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby? If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, it is very important for you to go to prenatal care visits. Tell your doctor if you have ever had symptoms of, or have been diagnosed with, genital herpes. Also tell your doctor if you have ever been exposed to genital herpes. There is some research that suggests that genital herpes infection may lead to miscarriage, or could make it more likely for you to deliver your baby too early. Herpes infection can be passed from you to your unborn child before birth but is more commonly passed to your infant during delivery. This can lead to a potentially deadly infection in your baby (called neonatal herpes). It is important that you avoid getting herpes during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, you may be offered anti-herpes medicine towards the end of your pregnancy. This medicine may reduce your risk of having signs or symptoms of genital herpes at the time of delivery. At the time of delivery, your doctor should carefully examine you for herpes sores. If you have herpes symptoms at delivery, a ‘C-section’ is usually performed. How do I know if I have genital herpes? Most people who have genital herpes have no symptoms, or have very mild symptoms. You may not notice mild symptoms or you may mistake them for another skin condition, such as a pimple or ingrown hair. Because of this, most people who have herpes do not know it. Herpes sores usually appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum or mouth. The blisters break and leave painful sores that may take a week or more to heal. These symptoms are sometimes called “having an outbreak.” The first time someone has an outbreak they may also have flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands. People who experience an initial outbreak of herpes can have repeated outbreaks, especially if they are infected with HSV-2. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Although the infection stays in the body for the rest of your life, the number of outbreaks may decrease over time. You should be examined by your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms or if your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD. STD symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly genital discharge, burning when urinating, or (for women) bleeding between periods. How will my doctor know if I have herpes? Your healthcare provider may diagnose genital herpes by simply looking at your symptoms. Providers can also take a sample from the sore(s) and test it. In certain situations, a blood test may be used to look for herpes antibodies. Have an honest and open talk with your health care provider and ask whether you should be tested for herpes or other STDs. Please note: A herpes blood test can help determine if you have herpes infection. It cannot tell you who gave you the infection or how long you have been infected. Can herpes be cured? There is no cure for herpes. However, there are medicines that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. One of these anti-herpes medicines can be taken daily, and makes it less likely that you will pass the infection on to your sex partner(s). What happens if I don’t get treated? Genital herpes can cause painful genital sores and can be severe in people with suppressed immune systems. If you touch your sores or the fluids from the sores, you may transfer herpes to another part of your body, such as your eyes. Do not touch the sores or fluids to avoid spreading herpes to another part of your body. If you do touch the sores or fluids, immediately wash your hands thoroughly to help avoid spreading your infection. If you are pregnant, there can be problems for you and your developing fetus, or newborn baby. See “I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby?” above for information about this. Can I still have sex if I have herpes? If you have herpes, you should talk to your sex partner(s) and let him or her know that you do and the risk involved. Using condoms may help lower this risk but it will not get rid of the risk completely. Having sores or other symptoms of herpes can increase your risk of spreading the disease. Even if you do not have any symptoms, you can still infect your sex partners. You may have concerns about how genital herpes will impact your overall health, sex life, and relationships. It is best for you to talk to a health care provider about those concerns, but it also is important to recognize that while herpes is not curable, it can be managed with medication. Daily suppressive therapy (i.e., daily use of antiviral medication) for herpes can also lower your risk of spreading genital herpes to your sex partner. Be sure to discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider. Since a genital herpes diagnosis may affect how you will feel about current or future sexual relationships, it is important to understand how to talk to sexual partners about STIs. What is the link between genital herpes and HIV? Herpes infection can cause sores or breaks in the skin or lining of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. Even without visible sores, having genital herpes increases the number of CD4 cells (the cells that HIV targets for entry into the body) found in the lining of the genitals. When a person has both HIV and genital herpes, the chances are higher that HIV will be spread to an HIV-uninfected sex partner during sexual contact with their partner’s mouth, vagina, or rectum. < Previous Next >

Transportation Getting To A Clinic Home » Community Resources » Transportation Dial-A-Ride & Coos County Area Transit (CCAT) coostransit.org 541-267-7111 Yellow Cab Taxi 2756 Woodland Drive Coos Bay, OR 97420 541-267-3111 Coastal Express (between cities) currypublictransit.org 541-412-8806 Translink (Rides/reimbursement for medical appointments for open card clients) 239 E Barnett Rd Medford, OR 97501 888-518-8160 Full Moon Taxi 541-269-7790 Bay Cities Brokerage (BCB) bca-ride.com 3505 Ocean Blvd SE Coos Bay, OR 97420 877-324-8109 DAV Van Service (Transportation to VA medical appointments) Based out of Roseburg VA Hospital 541-440-1293 Ext 44358