Symptoms of Genital Herpes

What is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. This page provides detailed information on genital herpes, including symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

What is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes but can also cause genital infections. HSV-2 is the more common cause of genital herpes. The virus spreads through direct contact with herpes sores, often during sexual activity. HSV remains in the body and can cause recurrent outbreaks.

Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Initial Outbreak:

Painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or surrounding areas
Fever
Body aches
Swollen lymph nodes

Recurrent Episodes:

Less severe than the initial outbreak
Tingling, itching, or burning before sores appear
Blisters and ulcers that heal within a few weeks

Transmission

Genital herpes is transmitted through:

Sexual contact with an infected person
Oral-genital contact (especially with HSV-1)
Contact with genital or anal sores

Transmission can occur even without visible sores.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through:

Physical examination of sores
Laboratory tests such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect viral DNA
Blood tests for HSV antibodies

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

Symptoms of genital herpes include painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or surrounding areas during the initial outbreak, along with fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Recurrent episodes are less severe and may include tingling, itching, or burning before sores appear.

How is genital herpes transmitted?

Genital herpes is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person, oral-genital contact, and contact with genital or anal sores. Transmission can occur even without visible sores.

Can genital herpes be cured?

There is no cure for genital herpes, but antiviral medications like acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

How can genital herpes be prevented?

Preventing genital herpes involves using condoms consistently, avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks, informing sexual partners about the infection, and considering daily suppressive therapy for those with frequent outbreaks. Pregnant women should inform their healthcare providers to reduce the risk of neonatal herpes.

What should pregnant women with genital herpes do?

Pregnant women with genital herpes should inform their healthcare providers to take steps to reduce the risk of neonatal herpes, which can be serious for newborns.