Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Transmission & Treatment

Recognize the symptoms of genital herpes and treat them immediately!

Genital Herpes

What is Genital Herpes? Genital herpes is a skin manifestation of the herpes simplex virus HSV-2. However, sometimes it can also be caused by the oral herpes virus HSV-1. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, affecting men and women equally.

Symptoms & Duration The symptoms of genital herpes, if left untreated, can last 2 weeks or more and include: Appearance of blisters with yellow fluid and pain Itching Burning sensation Fever Pain in the vagina / penis Pain during urination Vaginal discharge Lymphadenopathy

Genital Herpes: Photos

Transmission - How is it Contracted? Genital herpes is transmitted through: Sexual contact (oral, vaginal, anal) Direct skin contact with the affected area Contact with bodily fluids (saliva, semen) It is important to emphasize that genital herpes is usually caused by infection with the HSV-2 virus. However, sometimes it can also be caused by the oral herpes virus (HSV-1), which can be transmitted through oral sex. Finally, genital herpes can be transmitted from the mother to the newborn during childbirth. Such an event can put the infant at great risk, therefore, if the mother has had genital herpes at least 6 weeks before childbirth, a C-section is recommended as a safer method for the infant's health.

Genital herpes can be transmitted even when there are no active lesions, therefore condom use is essential!

Diagnosis - Initial Stage The diagnosis of genital herpes is primarily made by a Dermatologist - Venereologist, and sometimes by a gynecologist during a clinical gynecological examination. To identify the virus responsible for the manifestation of genital herpes, laboratory tests can be performed after a blood sample or a sample of the fluid secreted from the lesions is taken.

There is no definitive cure for the herpes virus, only symptomatic treatment!

Treatment There is no definitive cure for the herpes virus. Our goal is to manage the symptoms of the virus and suppress its activity. This is achieved by:

Systemic therapy Topical therapy Combination of both For individuals experiencing frequent virus recurrences within a year, the dermatologist may prescribe specific suppressive therapy for the virus.

Genital herpes can reappear during periods of intense stress or when the body's defenses are low!

Can genital herpes be transmitted from toilets, towels, or other objects?

No, the virus does not have a long lifespan outside the body. Therefore, genital herpes is transmitted only through sexual intercourse, the exchange of bodily fluids, and direct skin-to-skin contact with the lesion.

I developed genital herpes while in a monogamous relationship. Does this mean my partner is not faithful?

A large percentage of people infected with the herpes virus do not exhibit symptoms immediately after infection. It can take months for symptoms to appear, so infidelity may not be the reason you are experiencing genital herpes now.

Genital herpes will run its course and pass, even if left untreated, right?

The lesion will run its course and subside, but treatment is essential, as the surrounding healthy skin can become infected, it can leave scars, and until it subsides, it is highly contagious!