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What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that affects men and women. The virus spreads primarily through sexual contact. It does not spread through contact with objects used by an infected person as the virus dies quickly outside the body.
There are two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections that can cause genital herpes:
HSV-1 often spreads through oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth (known as oral herpes or cold sores). It can also cause genital herpes.
HSV-2 often spreads through sexual contact and causes genital herpes.
How is genital herpes transmitted?
The primary mode of transmission for HSV-1 and HSV-2 is via direct contact of open lesions. It can occur through genital to genital, mouth to genital, genital to anal, and mouth to anal contact. HSV-1 and HSV-2 can also be shed from normal-appearing skin or inner linings of oral or genital cavities.
You cannot get genital herpes from objects such as cutlery or cups – the virus dies very quickly when away from the skin.
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
Most people with HSV infection experience either no or mild symptoms. Consequently, they may transmit the virus to their partners unknowingly.
First-episode genital herpes may either be primary or non-primary.
Primary genital herpes | Infection with no prior exposure to HSV-1 or HSV-2. |
Non-primary genital herpes | Infection with prior exposure at another body site with either HSV-1 or HSV-2. |
First-episode genital herpes is often severe, presenting with multiple grouped vesicles (fluid-filled sac), which rupture easily leaving painful erosions and ulcers.
For men | Lesions occur mainly on the prepuce and sub-preputial areas of the penis. |
For women | Lesions occur on the vulva, vagina, and cervix. |
Uncomplicated lesions take two to four weeks to heal. Complications may include:
Aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the linings of the brain)
Autonomic neuropathy (damages to the autonomic nervous system) resulting in urinary retention and autoinoculation to fingers
Recurrent episodes are usually less severe. The vesicles or erosions develop on a single site of the body and usually heal within 10 days. The median recurrence rate is about once per year for HSV-1 and four per year for HSV-2.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors include:
Sexual contact with an infected person
Engaging in unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex
Having multiple sexual partners
History or current presence of other STIs
How to treat genital herpes?
There is currently no cure for genital herpes. Oral antiviral medications are prescribed to manage it.
Symptoms of genital herpes may recur for years. While some people may experience numerous episodes each year, the outbreaks usually get less frequent as time passes.
To manage infections, it is recommended to:
Keep the affected area clean with saline
Take pain relievers for discomfort
Treat any secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics as necessary
How to prevent genital herpes?
Ways to prevent genital herpes include:
Abstaining from sexual activity during symptomatic periods
Using condoms consistently and correctly
Limiting the number of sexual partners
Getting tested for STIs regularly
If you have an active infection:
Avoid sexual intercourse
Keep your sores clean and dry
Avoid touching the sores and wash your hands after contact with any sores
Seek advice from your doctor immediately if you are pregnant