Frequently asked questions
Answers only about herpes care — cost, pharmacy, and eligibility detail live on their own pages.
Does suppression stop outbreaks completely?
No — and no care can promise that. Suppression lowers how often outbreaks happen for many people, and flares that do happen are often milder. The virus stays in the body between outbreaks, which is normal biology, not treatment failing. If flares keep breaking through, tell your Clinician. The plan can be adjusted, and outbreak help is included while you are on it.
What if my symptoms are new, or I have never been diagnosed?
Start here, and say clearly that it is your first time. A first or unclear outbreak often needs a video or in-person visit. A Clinician can see the sores and arrange testing to confirm the diagnosis. Once the picture is clear, ongoing care can usually move online.
Can suppression lower the chance of passing herpes to a partner?
Yes, it can lower that chance, because fewer outbreaks and less silent shedding mean fewer chances to pass the virus on. It does not remove the chance entirely, even between outbreaks when skin looks normal. Honest conversation with a partner, plus care that keeps outbreaks down, is the strongest combination most couples have.
What usually triggers an outbreak?
Sun and heat are common triggers for cold sores — and Texas summers bring plenty of both. Stress, illness, poor sleep, and friction or skin irritation can set off genital outbreaks too. Patterns differ by person. Noting what happened in the days before a flare helps your Clinician plan suppression and timing with you.