by retrochav » Sun Jan 06, 2008 9:40 pm
I assume by the symptoms that we are talking about herpes simplex, which is like cold sores in the genital area.
This cannot be caught by swimming - the chlorine would kill the virus, as well as the water being too dilute to transmit it. It is possible that it was caught by a prior partner having a cold sore and having oral sex with her. It may not have shown up because it can lay dormant for some time, and often isnt noticable in a girl who doesnt shave down there.
Herpes simplex is small viral blisters that are only contagous whilst weeping (that is when the blister has burst). Anti viral creams and tablets (aycliclovir) will keep it at bay most of the time. I am yet to find the case of transmission through a toilet seat - i believe the virus wouldnt survive between users, and the incidence would be sky high amoungst women.
Hepatitis is a far more serious condition. This is transmitted by blood or seminal or vaginal fluids. This virus attacks the liver, and its symptoms include black urine, yellow tinged skin, and fluffy stools. There are three main strains: A,B, and C. Hep.A can be caught occassionally via seafood that isnt cooked (because of sewage discharge - but its a rarity). Hep A and B can be vaccinated against and can be treated and reccovered from. Hep C is far more serious in that it remains symptomless for years and to date we have no cure or vaccine.
All the more reason to practice safer sex and keep in touch with STD clinics for latest thinking on doing so.
In any case, dont judge your friends too harshly. Few people would knowingly infect anyone else.
whatever your problem someone else has been there and bears the scars.