Hello, I am writing this message in regard to a concern that I have. I went swimming with my child at a public swimming pool and as I was swimming, I noticed that I did have a little irritation in my pelvic area on the one side. I naturally thought that it was because the swimsuit that I had just purchased was a little bit too tight but as time went on, I noticed that the irritation became a little more severe. I have not had many outbreaks I usually only have about 3 to 4 A year since my diagnosis, but the sensation became familiar, so I immediately got out of the water. Upon me going to the restroom to check I did notice that I was having an active outbreak. I immediately started to panic and now I have a major concern because as I stated I was swimming with my child and amongst other people in the pool All I've been thinking about since yesterday is if I possibly infected anyone while I was there. I was diagnosed with HSV2 2 years ago and it has been a struggle dealing with it. I've done as much research on the virus as possible but when it comes to this situation, I'm unclear as of whether or not I should have a major concern. It has already been a major factor in my confidence level and has given me extreme anxiety. All keep thinking about it's my child and other people's children that was surrounding us. To be quite honest I feel horrible due to the fact I should have got out the water the first time I felt any sort of sensation down there. So, my question is if I possibly infected my child and others around me while in the pool. 

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Thank you so much for answering my question. My OBG was not available to ask her. I have been absolutely panicking for past three days but with your reassurance I can try to calm myself down. 

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Yes, those feelings most definitely can be. I would be lying if I said even though you reassured me that there is no possibility of infecting others around me in the pool, that a part of me that still feel like I did. As I have stated upon my diagnosis I did as much research as possible just because of my children and I didn't want anything that I did like not properly washing my hands or sharing that same bath towel lead to me transmitting the infection on to them. I just wanted to know what I can and cannot do and this I never thought to look into. At times I just feel so unclean. I know that I shouldn't think of myself in that way but it's hard not to especially when I think about situations like this were I'm wondering if we go on a vacation, can I not have fun with my children or if I by myself can I not enjoy my time. I didn't mean to fill you in about my personal feelings I just still am feeling worrisome that's all. I will that your advice and try to implement it into my thoughts and try to focus on a more positive way of thinking. 

It's fine to share your feelings with me, and believe me when I say you are not alone in these feelings.  Mothers and fathers often write to me with concerns about infecting their children when they are diagnosed with genital herpes.  Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection, it is not transmitted to your children in a household situation.  The only precaution we offer is to not share towels.  There are no documented cases of HSV being shared through towels but because they can stay warm and wet and are used to wipe genitals dry, we think having one of your own is best.---