Genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is brought on by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). HSV comes in two varieties: type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 can cause both genital and oral herpes, the latter of which is characterized by cold sores around the mouth. The more frequent cause of genital herpes is HSV-2.
During vaginal, oral, or anal sex, the virus can be transferred by coming into direct contact with herpes sores. Even if the infected individual has no apparent sores or any other signs, HSV can still be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with the mouth or genitalia of the infected person.
Genital herpes symptoms might vary greatly. Some people might not exhibit any symptoms at all, or their symptoms might be so minor as to go unnoticed. When symptoms do materialize, they may be comprised of:
It is important to note that HSV stays in your body permanently once you've been exposed to it. The virus goes dormant and can reawaken at any time, causing symptoms to re-emerge. Each person experiences re-emergence at a different frequency.
Antiviral drugs can help to manage symptoms, lessen the severity and frequency of outbreaks, and limit the risk of spreading the virus to others, but there is no known cure for genital herpes. Condom use, routine STI screenings, and refraining from sexual activity when an outbreak is underway are all examples of prevention strategies. The use of antiviral drugs can also aid in lowering the risk of transmission if one partner has herpes.
If you notice symptoms which might indicate genital herpes, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Genital herpes requires professional diagnosis and management. Your doctor can provide appropriate treatment and advice on how to manage the condition and prevent transmission to others. It's important to remember that your health is of utmost priority, and seeking help is the best course of action.
American Sexual Health Association. (n.d.). Herpes. http://www.ashasexualhealth.org/stdsstis/herpes/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Genital Herpes - CDC Fact Sheet (Detailed). https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm
World Health Organization. (2017). Herpes simplex virus. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus
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