What is it and how is it passed on?
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of the virus which affect the mouth and nose as cold sores or affect the genital and anal areas.
Some people have one outbreak of herpes, others have repeated outbreaks. Genital herpes is passed on by direct skin contact, mainly during vaginal, oral or anal sex, or sharing sex toys.
There are ways in which you can avoid passing on genital herpes:
- During an outbreak, the blisters and sores are highly infectious. Avoid contact with the infected area of skin at this time or during the warning signs of an outbreak.
- Condoms may help protect against genital herpes, although their effectiveness is unclear as the virus is present on the skin, and the condom only covers the penis so it can't offer complete protection.
It is possible to get herpes simplex by having sex with an infected person who has never had any signs or symptoms.
You can't catch genital herpes from hugging, sharing baths, towels, cups, plates or cutlery, or from toilet seats or swimming pools.
Signs and symptoms
Many people show no signs of the virus. Others don't recognise the symptoms if they're very mild. Symptoms can develop at any time after contact with the virus, but for most people it takes around three to four days.
Symptoms include:
- fluid-filled blisters that burst leaving painful sores
- flu-like symptoms - headache, backache, swollen glands in the groin or fever
- tingling or itching sensation in the genitals or anal area
- pain when passing urine
Left untreated, the symptoms last approximately two to three weeks. Recurrent infections are milder and symptoms clear up more quickly (within a week).
Testing and treatment
Tests for genital herpes shouldn't be painful but they may be uncomfortable. They may include:
- taking a swab from any visible sores
- genital examination by a doctor or nurse
- urine tests
- women may have an internal examination
The virus always remains in the body and no treatment gets rid of it completely. Antiviral tablets can be taken during the first outbreak to ease symptoms and help clear it up. However, these can be less effective if further outbreaks are experienced.
People often experience early warning signs of an outbreak, such as a tingling sensation in the affected area. Self-help measures can prove useful in reducing symptoms or preventing outbreaks, such as:
- avoiding stress
- eating a balanced diet
- cutting down on smoking and drinking
- avoiding direct sunlight on the affected area - including using sunbeds
- avoiding lycra or nylon underwear
What happens if it isn't treated?
Serious problems are uncommon. Genital herpes doesn't affect fertility. It's not linked to cancer of the cervix.
Where to go for help and advice
You can talk to your GP or go to a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. Such clinics diagnose and treat all STIs for free. They're completely confidential and your GP won't be informed without your consent. You can go to any clinic in the country for advice or treatment.
You can also call the Herpes Viruses Association helpline on 0845 123 2305.
How to avoid STIs
1. Before you have sex, talk to your partner about how to protect yourselves.
2. A male or female condom can provide protection from most STIs if used correctly every time you have sex.
3. Become familiar with how to use condoms and have a supply ready.
4. Seek advice straight away if you think you've been at risk.
Genital Herpes News:
Vaginal Gel May Help Reduce HIV Infections - Research presented at the International AIDS Conference shows that a vaginal gel reduced women's risk of becoming infected with HIV by more than half when it was applied consistently before and after sex.
HPV Vaccine May Protect Against Genital Warts - According to a new study, the human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV)--which is given to women to help prevent cervical cancer--may also help protect them from low-grade cervical growths and genital warts.
Clues Found to How Herpes Invades Cells - Scientists using advanced imaging technologies say they are coming closer to understanding how the herpes simplex virus invades cells.
Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Linked to Higher STD Rates - According to a new study, middle-aged and older men who take erectile dysfunction drugs such as Viagra are more likely to have sexually transmitted diseases.
Middle-Aged 'Swingers' at High STD Risk - A new Dutch study has found that "swingers"--heterosexual adults who engage in partner swapping or attend sex clubs for couples--have similar rates of herpes, HIV, and other sexually transmitted diseases as those found in teens and gay or bisexual men.
Obese Have Worse Sexual Health, Despite Fewer Partners - Experts say low self esteem and concerns about body image may be responsible for the findings.
Roughly One-Third of U.S. Girls Get HPV Vaccine: Study - Researchers found that girls of parents with higher levels of education were more likely to have received the HPV vaccine, but vaccination rates declined as family income levels rose.
Can Herpes and Natural Childbirth Mix? - A reader asks whether it's safe for a woman who has genital herpes to have a natural, vaginal childbirth.
Vaginal Herpes Gel May Be Ready by 2012 - Officials with drugmaker Starpharma Holdings Ltd. say the company plans to release the first herpes-killing vaginal gel within the next two years.
Lubricant Boosts HIV Infection Risk During Anal Sex: Study - According to new research, the use of lubricants during unprotected anal intercourse may raise the risk of HIV transmission in the receptive partner.
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