Pat's Answer

Hello, you are very welcome to Ask Pat.

Thank you so much for reaching out and trusting us with your thoughts. We know it is not always an easy thing to do but we also know how good it is for young people to talk about whatever is troubling them.  

You are asking how to know if you have folliculitis or herpes.  

Unfortunately, we are not able to give a definite answer to your question as we are not medically trained to do so. Have you thought about speaking to your doctor about this? If you do not feel ready to talk to your doctor, is there a trusted adult in your life who you would feel comfortable talking to such as an aunt or uncle, grandparent or school counsellor? You have the right as a young person to get help and advice on the questions you have and it is important that you get the support you deserve around these issues.  

Perhaps you’d like to have a look at the Childline website for information that may be useful to you: https://www.childline.ie/sexuality-and-relationships/ .  

These websites also have some information you may find valuable: https://spunout.ie/category/sex-relationships/stis ; www.nehb.ie/youthhealthne  

If you would like to chat with someone from Childline, you can contact us by phone on 1800 66 66 66, by text at 50101, or through our web chat service on www.childline.ie. Childline is here for you whenever you feel ready to chat. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our services are free and confidential. We will never judge you on your thoughts and feelings and we will help you explore what options are available to you.  

Thanks again for getting in touch with us and we hope to hear from you soon.  

Take care,  

Pat