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Genital Herpes is the most common ulcerative STD, with around 20,000 new cases being diagnosed each year.
What is Genital Herpes?
It is a viral infection of the genitals caused by the Herpes Simplex II virus. It is similar to infection with Herpes Simplex I virus which causes cold sores but is generally much more severe than the HSV virus infection. Painful blisters or sores develop around the penis, mouth, vagina or anus.
How can I get Genital Herpes?
Spread is sexual with unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sexual contact with an infected individual. Infection is highest when your sexual partner has blisters or sores. It is still possible to pick up genital herpes when your partner does not have sores, but the chances are much less. If you have unprotected sex then your partner and you may not see the sores because they may be hidden inside a vagina or anus.
What are the Genital Herpes Symptons?
Generally, the first episode of genital herpes tends to be very severe.
People often develop painful lesions on the penis, vagina, or anus together with fever, flu like symptoms, headache etc. Second and subsequent attacks may occur but are usually less severe.
Genital Herpes Tests
Diagnosis of genital herpes is usually by visual inspection by a trained doctor or nurse. Swabs from the lesions can be taken - but the lesions need virus within them to identify it. A blood test can help distinguish between Herpes Simplex I and Herpes Simplex II but is not reliable until 12 weeks have passed.
Genital Herpes Treatments
There are good treatments for Genital Herpes which will reduce the severity of the attack and also reduce the frequency of other attacks. They involve either taking tablets or using creams or lotions which can be applied to the affected areas. Treatments will not cure genital herpes but effectively control it.
