What Is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of the herpes simplex virus - HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-1 is the main cause of oral herpes, which leads to cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and lips. However, HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact. HSV-2 is the primary cause of genital herpes, which leads to blisters and sores around the genital, anal, and nearby areas.

Herpes is a lifelong and incurable infection, but it is manageable with proper treatment. Many people with herpes have no symptoms or only mild symptoms that go unnoticed. However, herpes can still be transmitted to sexual partners, even without visible sores.

Symptoms

Most people with genital herpes have either no symptoms or very mild symptoms that may go unnoticed. Potential symptoms include:

• Painful blisters or open sores in the genital, anal, or nearby areas
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes during the first outbreak
• Recurring outbreaks that are usually shorter and less severe than the initial episode

The first outbreak is typically the most severe. Recurrent outbreaks are common, especially with HSV-2, but tend to be less frequent and less severe over time.

How is Genital Herpes Spread?

Genital herpes is spread through direct contact with the virus, usually during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The virus can be transmitted from the mouth, genitals, or anus of an infected person to the mouth, genitals, or anus of an uninfected partner.

Herpes can be spread even when no symptoms are present, as the virus can be shed from the skin. Using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, but does not eliminate it completely.

Risks and Complications

Genital herpes increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection. The sores and breaks in the skin from herpes provide an entry point for HIV.

Herpes can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth, which can lead to a deadly infection in the newborn. Pregnant women with genital herpes should inform their healthcare provider, as preventative medication may be needed.

Testing and Treatment

Genital herpes is diagnosed through a physical exam and laboratory testing. Healthcare providers can examine any sores or take a sample to test for the herpes virus.

There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks and reduce transmission to partners. Daily suppressive therapy with these medications can significantly lower the risk of passing the virus to others.

While living with herpes can be challenging, it is a manageable condition. Consulting with a healthcare provider is important to understand treatment options and take steps to prevent spreading the infection to others.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Genital Herpes - CDC Fact Sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/herpes/about/
2. World Health Organization (WHO). Herpes simplex virus. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus