Can herpes be transmitted through casual contact. Is herpes always symptomatic. How common is genital herpes. Can people with herpes have children. Does herpes cause cervical cancer. Is herpes passed through blood. Should condoms always be used in monogamous relationships if one partner has herpes.

Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. There are two main types of HSV: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is primarily associated with oral herpes, commonly known as cold sores, while HSV-2 is typically linked to genital herpes. However, it’s crucial to understand that both types can infect either the oral or genital regions.

HSV-1 is incredibly prevalent, with up to 80% of the population carrying this virus. It’s often contracted during childhood through non-sexual contact. HSV-2, on the other hand, affects approximately 22% of sexually active adults. Despite its prevalence, many misconceptions surround herpes, leading to unnecessary stigma and misinformation.

Key Facts About HSV Transmission

• HSV-1 can be transmitted to the genitals through oral-genital sex
• About 40% of genital herpes cases are caused by HSV-1
• 75% of people who contract genital herpes get it from partners unaware of their infection
• Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, not through blood or casual interactions

Debunking Common Herpes Myths

Numerous myths about herpes persist, contributing to misunderstandings and stigma. Let’s address some of the most common misconceptions:

Myth: Only certain types of people get herpes

This is entirely false. Herpes doesn’t discriminate based on lifestyle, cleanliness, or moral character. Anyone who is sexually active can potentially contract herpes. It’s a common viral infection that affects people from all walks of life.

Myth: Herpes is always symptomatic

Contrary to popular belief, about 80% of people with genital herpes are asymptomatic or experience very mild symptoms that go unnoticed. This lack of obvious symptoms contributes to the virus’s spread, as many infected individuals are unaware of their status.

Myth: Cold sores and genital herpes are completely different

While often caused by different strains of the virus, oral and genital herpes can be caused by either HSV-1 or HSV-2. In fact, up to 40% of genital herpes cases are caused by HSV-1, typically through oral-genital contact.

Herpes and Sexual Health Screenings

Many people assume that routine sexual health screenings or cervical smear tests check for herpes. However, this is not the case. Herpes testing is typically only performed when a person shows active symptoms, and a swab can be taken directly from a lesion.

Why isn’t herpes included in standard STI panels? There are several reasons:

1. The high prevalence of asymptomatic cases
2. The potential for false positives in blood tests
3. The psychological impact of a positive diagnosis, especially in asymptomatic individuals
4. The limited treatment options for asymptomatic carriers

If you suspect you may have herpes or have been exposed, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider who can guide you on appropriate testing and management strategies.

Herpes and Pregnancy: Separating Fact from Fiction

One of the most persistent myths about herpes is that it prevents people from having children. This is entirely false. Individuals with herpes can have normal pregnancies and vaginal deliveries. However, it’s crucial for expectant parents with herpes to inform their healthcare providers to ensure appropriate management and reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.

Can herpes be transmitted to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth?

While it is possible for herpes to be passed on to babies, it’s relatively rare. The risk is highest when a mother contracts herpes for the first time late in pregnancy. For women with established herpes infections, the risk is much lower due to the presence of antibodies that help protect the baby.

Precautions for pregnant women with herpes

• Inform your healthcare provider about your herpes status
• Consider antiviral medication during the third trimester to reduce the risk of outbreaks
• Discuss delivery options with your doctor, especially if you have active lesions near your due date
• Be aware of the signs of a potential outbreak and seek medical attention promptly

Herpes and Cancer: Dispelling a Dangerous Myth

A particularly harmful myth is the belief that herpes causes cervical cancer. This is categorically false. Herpes simplex virus is not associated with cervical abnormalities or cervical cancer. These conditions are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is an entirely different virus.

While both HPV and HSV are sexually transmitted infections, their effects on the body are quite different:

• HSV causes recurrent outbreaks of sores or blisters but does not lead to cancer
• Certain high-risk strains of HPV can cause cellular changes that may lead to cervical cancer if left untreated
• Regular cervical screenings are essential for detecting HPV-related changes, regardless of herpes status

Living with Herpes: Management and Relationships

For many people, the emotional impact of a herpes diagnosis can be more challenging than the physical symptoms. However, with proper understanding and management, herpes doesn’t have to significantly impact quality of life or relationships.

Do people with herpes always need to use condoms in long-term relationships?

In long-term monogamous relationships, many couples choose not to use condoms continuously. This decision should be made jointly after both partners are fully informed about the risks and benefits. It’s worth noting that a partner may already have herpes without knowing it, given the high rates of asymptomatic infections.

Can someone with genital herpes receive oral sex?

Transmission of herpes from the genitals to the mouth is relatively uncommon. However, it’s not impossible, and couples should discuss their comfort levels and risk tolerance. Using dental dams or other barriers can reduce the risk of transmission during oral sex.

Managing herpes in daily life

• Be aware of prodromal symptoms that may signal an impending outbreak
• Consider suppressive antiviral therapy if outbreaks are frequent or severe
• Practice good hygiene, especially during outbreaks
• Communicate openly with sexual partners about your status
• Seek support from healthcare providers or support groups if needed

Herpes and Blood Donation: Clearing Up Confusion

A common misconception is that people with herpes cannot donate blood. This is not true. Herpes is not present in the blood, and individuals with genital herpes can safely donate blood without risk to recipients.

The herpes virus is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, both orally and genitally. It does not circulate in the bloodstream in a way that would make blood donation risky. However, it’s always important to be honest about your medical history when donating blood, as there may be other factors that could affect eligibility.

Facts about herpes and blood donation

• Having herpes does not disqualify you from donating blood
• The herpes virus is not transmitted through blood transfusions
• Blood donation centers do not test for herpes as part of their screening process
• Active herpes outbreaks may temporarily delay blood donation until healed

Self-Transmission of Herpes: Addressing a Common Concern

Many people worry about the possibility of spreading herpes from one part of their body to another, such as from the mouth to the genitals. While this concern is understandable, it’s generally unfounded.

Can you give yourself herpes by touching an active sore and then touching another part of your body?

Once you have contracted herpes at one site, it’s extremely rare to then get the same type at another site. This is because your body develops antibodies that prevent this type of self-infection, a process known as autoinoculation.

However, during the initial outbreak, before antibodies have fully developed, there is a small risk of spreading the virus to other areas. This risk is highest in the first few months after initial infection. After this period, the risk of self-transmission becomes negligible.

Precautions during initial outbreaks

• Avoid touching active sores or blisters
• Wash hands thoroughly after any potential contact with lesions
• Avoid sexual activity during outbreaks
• Consider using separate towels for affected and unaffected areas

It’s important to note that while self-transmission is rare, you can still transmit the virus to sexual partners. Practicing safe sex and being aware of prodromal symptoms can help reduce the risk of transmission to others.

Herpes in Everyday Life: Dispelling Household Transmission Myths

Some people worry about the risk of transmitting herpes through everyday household activities or shared facilities. These concerns are largely unfounded and can lead to unnecessary anxiety and social isolation.

Can herpes be transmitted through shared living spaces or items?

The herpes simplex virus does not survive long outside the human body. Once it leaves living skin cells, it quickly dies. This means that transmission through shared household items or facilities is extremely unlikely.

People with genital or facial herpes can safely:

• Use the same showers and toilets as others
• Share washing machines and laundry facilities
• Use public swimming pools
• Share towels, bedding, or clothing (although it’s generally hygienic to avoid sharing these items during active outbreaks)

The virus requires direct skin-to-skin contact for transmission. It cannot be spread through the air, water, or surfaces like toilet seats or doorknobs.

Maintaining hygiene during outbreaks

While the risk of environmental transmission is minimal, it’s still important to practice good hygiene, especially during active outbreaks:

• Wash hands thoroughly after touching affected areas
• Avoid sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes
• Keep lesions covered if they’re in areas that might come into contact with shared surfaces
• Clean and disinfect sex toys thoroughly

By understanding the facts about herpes transmission, individuals can alleviate unnecessary fears and focus on practical management strategies. Remember, millions of people live with herpes without it significantly impacting their daily lives or relationships.

Myths vs facts on genital herpes (HSV-2) & cold sores

Herpes Myth: Only certain sorts of people get herpes.

Fact about herpes: No, it is very common and anyone who has ever had sex can get genital herpes. It’s not about being clean, dirty, good or bad – it’s about being normal and sexually active.

Herpes Myth: Herpes isn’t that common, and I am unlikely to get it.

Fact about herpes: Herpes is very common and may be caused by both herpes simplex type 1 and herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-1 or HSV-2). HSV-1 causes “cold sores” on the mouth, and up to 80% of the population has this virus. However, it may also be transmitted to the genitals through oral-genital sex and about 40% of genital herpes is caused by HSV-1. Up to 22% of sexually active adults have genital herpes caused by HSV-2. Most people with herpes will not have symptoms and therefore will not be aware they have it. 75% of people who have genital herpes get it from partners who are entirely unaware that they have it themselves.

Herpes Myth: Herpes “cold sores” on the mouth are not the same as genital herpes.

Fact about herpes: Cold sores on the mouth or face are caused by HSV-1 and are commonly transmitted to the genitals (causing genital herpes) through oral-to-genital sex. Up to 40% of genital herpes is caused by HSV-1.

Herpes Myth: Herpes can only affect the genital area.

Fact about herpes: HSV-1 typically affects the mouth area. HSV-2 and HSV-1 affect the genitals, pubic area, buttocks, back of the thigh or inner thigh. Herpes can also occur in other parts of the body, although this is less common. On the fingers, it is known as herpes whitlow.

Herpes Myth: People always know if they have genital herpes.

Fact about herpes: No, 80% of those with genital herpes do not know they have it, as they may have no or very mild symptoms.

Herpes Myth: People with herpes are always infectious.

Fact about herpes: A person with herpes is not always infectious but the herpes virus is occasionally shed from the skin when symptoms are not present. Most of the time when you don’t have herpes symptoms you are not infectious.

Herpes Myth: When you have an STI check or a cervical smear, it always checks for herpes.

Fact about herpes: Routine sexual health (STI screens) checks and cervical smear tests do not screen or test for herpes. Tests for herpes can only be done if a person has symptoms and a swab is taken directly from the lesion.

Herpes Myth: People with herpes cannot have children.

Fact about herpes: Herpes does not affect fertility, and expectant parents with genital herpes can have normal pregnancies and vaginal delivery. Herpes can be passed on to babies, but this is rare. If you are pregnant and you or your partner has herpes, tell your health care professional.

Herpes Myth: Herpes causes cervical cancer.

Fact about herpes: Herpes is not associated with cervical abnormalities or cervical cancer. These are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), which is not herpes.

Herpes Myth: Herpes is passed through blood.

Fact about herpes: Herpes is not present in the blood. People with genital herpes can still donate blood. Genital herpes is only passed through direct skin-to-skin contact, both orally and genitally.

Myth: If you have herpes you should always wear condoms in long-term monogamous relationships.

Fact about herpes: In long-term relationships, most couples choose not to continually use condoms, and understand that getting herpes is just a part of life. (Your partner may already have herpes without being aware of it). Whilst some people may experience troublesome herpes symptoms from time to time, for the majority, herpes is not symptomatic or causes only mild symptoms. Herpes medication is available for those that need it.

Myth: If you have genital herpes you can’t have (receive) oral sex.

Fact about herpes: Herpes transmission to the mouth from the genitals is uncommon.

Myth: I can pass herpes to myself from my mouth to my genitals if I accidentally touch myself.

Fact about herpes: Once you have herpes at one site, it is rare to then get the same type at another site. This is because your body develops antibodies which prevent this from happening.

Myth: It’s risky living in the same house as someone who has genital herpes.

Fact about herpes: The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is not spread through sharing communal facilities. When the herpes virus leaves living skin cells, it dies. People with genital or facial herpes are able to use the same showers, toilets, washing machines, and swimming pools as anyone else, without the worry of passing on the herpes infection.

Winning the War in Your Mind

The emotional impact of being diagnosed with genital herpes is often much worse than the condition and it doesn’t deserve the upset it causes.
 

Free Download Resources on Genital Herpes

You can also download our guides in pdf form:

  Genital Herpes – The Facts – our comprehensive pamphlet covers FAQs, herpes and relationships, pregnancy, facial herpes and more. 

  Genital Herpes – Myths Vs Facts 
  Summary of Genital Herpes Guidelines 

New Zealand Residents Only

If you would like to get a print copy of the information booklets, fill out the form on the consumer request for printed materials page (it contains sections on Genital Herpes – The Facts, Herpes and Relationships, Herpes and Pregnancy, Facial Herpes).

What Is Genital Herpes? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

By Milly DawsonMedically Reviewed by Grant Chu, MD

Reviewed: February 1, 2023

Medically Reviewed

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. More than one in every six people between ages 14 and 49 living in the United States has genital herpes. (1)

Most people infected with herpes don’t even know it. They don’t know because the infection often has no symptoms, very mild symptoms, or symptoms that mimic other health or skin problems. But the infection can cause small, painful sores to form on the genitals, thighs, or buttocks. If sores do arise, they typically go away within two to three weeks, but the virus stays in the body for life.

“Lots and lots of people live normal, healthy lives with herpes, with some small degree of attention to protecting their partners during outbreaks,” says I. Cori Baill, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist and an associate professor at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, Florida.

Genital herpes can be treated, but it can’t be cured. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to prevent giving it to other people.

Common Questions & Answers

How do you get genital herpes?

You get genital herpes by coming into contact with the herpesvirus. This can occur during oral, vaginal, or anal sex. It can also occur during intimate skin-to-skin contact that doesn’t include intercourse. Genital herpes in a pregnant woman can also be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

What are the first signs of genital herpes?

Many people have no signs of a genital herpes infection. Those who do often experience tingling, burning, or itching in the genital area. Between 2 and 20 days after being infected, they may develop painful, fluid-filled blisters on the penis, vagina, buttocks, or anus, and women may also have sores inside the vagina.

How soon can you tell if you have genital herpes?

If you develop blisters in your genital area, your doctor may be able to diagnose herpes within days by testing a sample of the fluid in a blister. Blood testing for IgG antibodies to herpes (not IgM antibodies) should be done no sooner than 12 to 16 weeks after possible exposure.

Can you get herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) twice?

Once you have HSV-2 or HSV-1, you have it for life. So you can’t get it twice. But since either virus can infect both your genitals and your mouth area — as well as your eyes and other places on the skin, such as the fingertips — it’s possible to transfer the virus from one part of the body to another, making it seem like you were infected twice.

Is herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) an STD?

Best known for causing cold sores, HSV-1 can be transmitted during sexual activity. But many people get HSV-1 in the mouth area as infants or children from a nonsexual kiss or from skin-to-skin contact. HSV-1 can also be passed from one person to another by sharing items such as eating utensils, lip balm, or razors.

Signs and Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Many people with genital herpes have mild symptoms or no herpes symptoms at all. In addition, people often mistake mild symptoms for another skin condition, such as a pimple or an ingrown hair.

You should be examined by your doctor if you notice possible herpes symptoms or if your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD. Look out for symptoms such as unusual sores, burning when urinating, or, for women, bleeding between periods.

Genital herpes sores sometimes cause severe pain and are more likely to do so in people with suppressed immune systems.

If you touch your sores or the fluids from the sores, you may transfer herpes to another part of your body, such as your eyes. (2)

If you do touch the sores or fluids, immediately wash your hands well to help prevent the spread of your infection.

Some people have only one herpes outbreak. Others have many outbreaks. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first one. Although the infection stays in the body for life, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease over a period of years.

Both men and women can get genital herpes. The disease can be transmitted in nonsexual ways (say, if you touch a cold sore and then your genitals or anus) and also through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Symptoms of genital herpes tend to be worse in women. These typically include blisters that become painful sores. Some infected women also experience an unusual vaginal discharge.

Women most frequently experience blistering sores on these parts of the body:

• Vagina
• Vulva (the outer part of the genitals, including the vaginal lips and clitoris)
• Buttocks
• Anus
• Thighs

In most women, genital herpes doesn’t cause serious health problems.

Learn More About Signs and Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Causes and Risk Factors of Genital Herpes

Two types of viruses cause genital herpes — herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2).

Usually, HSV-1 causes oral herpes, which becomes visible in the form of cold sores, or fever blisters, on the face, close to the mouth. Most people contract an oral herpes infection during their childhood or young adult years from nonsexual contact with the saliva of an infected person.

HSV-1 mainly spreads through direct contact with cold sores or saliva. Having oral herpes, or cold sores, does not mean that you have genital herpes. But if you have oral herpes, you can spread it from your mouth to another person’s genitals if you perform oral sex on them.

Most cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2. Since sexual contact is the major means by which genital herpes is transmitted, the illness does not usually arise before adolescence. When a child develops genital herpes, healthcare providers must consider the possibility of abuse. This is true whenever a person contracts a sexually transmitted disease prior to the teen years.

People at heightened risk for HSV-2 infection include those who have multiple sexual partners, women, people with low incomes, and those infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In fact, among people who tested positive for HIV, one study found that the prevalence of HSV-2 infections ranged from 70 to more than 90 percent. (3)

You can get genital herpes by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with somebody who is infected with either HSV-1 or HSV-2. You can also contract the disease through contact with either one of the two herpes viruses in:

• A herpes sore on any part of the body
• Saliva, if your partner has oral herpes, or genital fluids, if your partner has genital herpes
• Skin around the mouth, if your partner has an oral herpes infection, or the skin in the genital region of a partner who has genital herpes

You can catch genital herpes from a partner who has no visible sores, or from a partner who doesn’t know that they have the infection. But a person is most infectious during their first outbreak of herpes, when they have sores, and during later outbreaks that produce sores.

As mentioned above, you can also get genital herpes if a partner with oral herpes performs oral sex on you. You can give yourself genital herpes, too, by touching a cold sore and then touching your genitals or anus.

Learn More About the Causes of Genital Herpes and Common Risk Factors

How Is Genital Herpes Diagnosed?

Often, a doctor can diagnose genital herpes visually, just by looking at your symptoms.

Alternatively, a doctor may draw a fluid sample from one of your sores for testing or test your blood for herpes or herpes antibodies. (4)

Remember that while testing can help determine if you have a herpes infection, no test can tell you who gave you the infection.

“Like any other sexually transmitted disease, the more partners you have and the more partners they have had, the more likely you are to contract genital herpes,” says Dr. Baill. “You sleep with everybody your partners have ever slept with.”

Prognosis of Genital Herpes

Genital herpes can be treated and managed. Baill stresses that for most people who have healthy immune systems, the high-risk times for giving a sex partner genital herpes are during the first outbreak and during later outbreaks of sores.

“Without such an outbreak, the viral load is usually not sufficient to infect a normal, healthy partner,” she says. “Antiviral medication can be effective at controlling the frequency and the severity of genital herpes outbreaks. ”

For some people, though, even the times when no symptoms are present can be risky ones for transmission.

“If you have genital herpes and your partner is taking biologic drugs for rheumatoid arthritis or MS [multiple sclerosis] or psoriasis, you may need to be extra careful,” says Baill. “It may take a lower viral load to infect people taking those medications.”

In these situations, she says, you may want to take antiviral drugs in an ongoing way to keep your viral load low and protect your partner.

Duration of Genital Herpes

The first episode of genital herpes usually begins with inflammation, followed by a small group of blisters that break and weep (exude liquid) after a few days and eventually crust over and heal. The first outbreak is usually the worst and ends within about three weeks. (5) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends antiviral medication for everyone having a first outbreak of genital herpes. (6)

Outbreaks after the initial one tend to last for less time and have less severe symptoms. Research has indicated that the number of symptomatic outbreaks may decrease over time. (7)

Treatment and Medication Options for Genital Herpes

Herpes is an incurable, chronic infection, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle modifications. Medications don’t wipe out the virus completely, but they can ease symptoms and lower the risk of transmission to another person.

Medication Options

Antiviral drugs are the primary way that genital herpes is treated. These medications can reduce the pain of genital sores during the initial outbreak, provide relief during later outbreaks, and make it less likely that you’ll infect any sexual partners with the virus. (8)

Three antiviral drugs are used for treating genital herpes:

• acyclovir (Zovirax)
• famciclovir (Famvir)
• valacyclovir (Valtrex)

“The three drugs are all basically the same medication. Their efficacy [effectiveness] is the same,” says Baill. The difference, she explains, is how often a person takes them.

The recommendation for a first episode of genital herpes is to follow one of these dosing options:

• Acyclovir 400 milligram (mg) orally three times a day for 7 to 10 days
• Acyclovir 200 mg orally five times a day for 7 to 10 days
• Valacyclovir 1 gram orally twice a day for 7 to 10 days
• Famciclovir 250 mg orally three times a day for 7 to 10 days

The therapy can be extended if healing is not complete after 10 days.

Some people also take antiviral medication during recurring episodes of herpes symptoms, and some take a daily antiviral to reduce symptom outbreaks and lower the likelihood of giving the infection to a sexual partner.

Learn More About Treatment for Genital Herpes: Medication and More

Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Although it’s not known for certain what triggers herpes outbreaks, they are often associated with fatigue, stress, and illness. (5) Mind-body interventions that reduce stress, such as meditation and yoga, may therefore be helpful in reducing outbreaks.

Getting adequate sleep and following a nutritious diet are also important for maintaining a healthy immune system and helpful for managing life stresses.

Certain supplements and herbal remedies have been tried for preventing herpes outbreaks or easing the symptoms of an outbreak. To date, however, there’s insufficient data to conclude that any of them is safe and effective for this use. (9)

If you wish to try a complementary therapy for genital herpes, speak to your doctor first to make sure the product you want to try won’t interfere with any medications or other therapies you’re using.

Learn More About Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Genital Herpes

Prevention of Genital Herpes

You can give a partner genital herpes with any kind of skin-to-skin sexual contact. It can spread during vaginal, oral, and anal sex.

Practicing safe sex can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus. This includes being monogamous, or having only one sexual partner, and using condoms or dental dams during sexual encounters.

Herpes can spread from areas of the body not covered by condoms, though. The virus can live on your thighs and buttocks, for instance.

Nonetheless, even though condoms can’t work all the time, regular use of condoms can reduce the risk of transmission. For greatest protection, use condoms and dental dams consistently, not just during outbreaks.

Other steps to lower the risk that you will spread herpes to another person include the following:

• Learn what it feels like for you when an outbreak is starting, and stop having sex as soon as you sense that feeling.
• Avoid sex completely during active outbreaks. Condoms can’t completely cover infectious areas or be counted on during such times.
• Wait for all sores to scab over and heal before having sex again.
• Avoid touching your herpes sores because you can spread the germs around your body that way. If you touch a sore, wash your hands right away.
• Don’t kiss anyone — especially pregnant women, babies, or children — or have sex when you have a cold sore.
• Tell a prospective sex partner about having herpes before you have sex with them, even though it may be hard.
• Ask your doctor about taking antiviral drugs to control herpes.

Complications of Genital Herpes

Herpes can increase the risk for certain health issues or diseases, which can include: (10)

• Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Having genital sores can increase the likelihood that you contract or spread other sexually transmitted infections, including AIDS.
• Newborn Infection If a baby is exposed to the herpesvirus via the infected mother, it can result in brain damage, blindness, or even death for the newborn.
• Bladder Issues Sometimes the sores associated with genital herpes can cause inflammation around the tube (called the urethra) that delivers urine outside your body from your bladder. The swelling can close the urethra for several days; if this occurs, a catheter must be inserted to drain the bladder.
• Meningitis Although rare, herpes simplex infection can lead to inflammation of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord.
• Rectal Inflammation Also called proctitis, genital herpes can cause inflammation of the lining of the rectum, especially in people who have anal sex.
• Eye Infection Called herpes keratitis, a herpes simplex infection of the eye can cause pain, redness, blurred vision, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Untreated, it can lead to severe damage to the eye. (2)
• Skin Infection In addition to causing sores around the mouth and nose, HSV-1 can also cause sores on other areas of the skin, such as the sides of the neck, sides of face, and forearms. Called herpes gladiatorum, this presentation of HSV-1 is often seen in athletes who participate in high-contact sports such as rugby, wrestling, and boxing. The skin lesions typically appear 4 to 11 days after exposure. (11)

Genital Herpes and Pregnancy

Pregnant women who get genital herpes during pregnancy, or who had genital herpes before becoming pregnant, can spread the infection to their babies during delivery. If it’s not treated, it can be deadly to the baby. The risk of giving herpes to your baby during delivery is low, however. Most women who have genital herpes give birth to uninfected babies. (12)

Still, it’s important to avoid getting herpes while pregnant. And if you’re pregnant and already have genital herpes, you should have regular prenatal visits. If you don’t have your own doctor, find a Planned Parenthood clinic, a community health center, or another clinic that provides prenatal care.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had symptoms of, or have been diagnosed with, genital herpes. Also tell your doctor if you have ever been exposed to genital herpes.

Some research suggests that genital herpes infection may increase the risk of miscarriage or heighten the risk that you will give birth too early. (13,14)

If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, your doctor may prescribe herpes medicine late in your pregnancy. This medicine may reduce your risk of having signs or symptoms of herpes when you give birth. At the time of delivery, your doctor should carefully examine you for herpes sores. If you do have herpes symptoms at delivery, the doctor may do a cesarean section (C-section).

The Emotional Side of Herpes

Many people feel embarrassed and ashamed upon learning that they have genital herpes, or they’re worried about getting it from a sexual partner or prospective sexual partner.

If either case describes you, take the time to educate yourself about the causes and symptoms of herpes, treatments, and steps you can take to stop the spread of herpes, such as using condoms.

It’s important to recognize and deal with feelings, worries, and fears you may have. Talking to your doctor or another healthcare provider can help you normalize your experience and move forward. If you are in a committed relationship, it may be helpful for you to make an appointment to see a healthcare provider with your partner.

Engaging in open conversations with your provider and any sexual partners may help to put your mind at ease. You will find out about the right precautions to take in light of your own personal situation.

Research and Statistics: Who Has Genital Herpes?

It’s estimated that each year, 572,000 people in the United States get new genital herpes infections. (15) Genital herpes is most often caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

The prevalence of HSV-2 was 11.9 percent during 2015 and 2016, a decline of 5.9 percentage points from the years 1999 and 2000. (16)

HSV-2 is more common in women than in men. It’s suspected that women are more likely to contract the HSV-2 infection because genital infection is more easily transmitted from men to women than from women to men during penile-vaginal sex. (7)

Black and Hispanic Communities and Genital Herpes

Black Americans and Hispanic Americans have higher rates of STDs generally when compared with white Americans. (17) This isn’t because of ethnicity or race; instead, social conditions such as poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and fear of discrimination from doctors and other healthcare providers all play part in the disparity. (18)

Black Americans and Genital Herpes

The age-adjusted prevalence for HSV-2, the virus that causes most genital herpes, was 34.6 for Black Americans, compared with 8.1 percent for white Americans. (16)

Black Americans are also less likely to be diagnosed with genital herpes, even after accounting for socio-demographic factors, such as education and income or health insurance. Lack of diagnosis likely contributes to ongoing transmission of the virus at a higher rate than for white or Hispanic Americans. (19)

Mexican Americans and Genital Herpes

There was no significant difference in the age-adjusted rates for HSV-2 between Mexican and white Americans; the age-adjusted prevalence was 9.4 percent and 8. 1 percent, respectively. (16)

Related Conditions

HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two of eight herpesviruses that infect humans. The six others are:

• Varicella zoster virus, or human herpesvirus 3, the cause of chickenpox
• Epstein-Barr virus, or human herpesvirus 4, the cause of infectious mononucleosis and other diseases
• Cytomegalovirus, or human herpesvirus 5, which in most people causes no symptoms but can cause CMV mononucleosis and hepatitis, among other diseases
• Human herpesvirus 6, a cause of Roseola infantum and middle ear infections
• Human herpesvirus 7, a cause of Roseola infantum
• Kaposi sarcoma associated herpesvirus, or herpesvirus 8, a contributing cause of Kaposi sarcoma and AIDS-related non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Resources We Love

If you’re sexually active — or interested in becoming so — it’s important to educate yourself about STDs, including genital herpes, and how to avoid them or, if necessary, live with them. For those living with herpes, having the support of others can help.

The STI Project: STD Support Groups

This organization lists support groups for people living with herpes and HPV in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Some groups meet in person, while others provide hotline support or online forums.

DatingWithHerpes.org

This group intends to give accurate and current information, support, and advice to people with genital herpes and their partners, friends, and families. The group offers tips on navigating dating life and how to have honest conversations about genital herpes.

American Sexual Health Association (ASHA)

This website offers straight information about genital herpes and lists a selection of herpes support groups around the United States and Canada.

ClinicalTrials.gov

Stay up to date on the latest research in genital herpes treatments, vaccines, and more.

Learn More About Sexuality and STD Resources

Additional reporting by Becky Upham.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

1. Genital Herpes Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 5, 2021.
2. Porter D. What Is Herpes Keratitis? American Academy of Ophthalmology. May 2, 2022.
3. Meyding-Lamadé U, Strank C. Herpesvirus Infections of the Central Nervous System in Immunocompromised Patients. Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders. September 2012.
4. Herpes Simplex Virus (Genital Herpes Test, Oral Herpes, HSV Test). Testing.com. September 29, 2022.
5. Genital Herpes: Common But Misunderstood. Harvard Health Publishing. June 21, 2021.
6. Genital Herpes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. September 21, 2022.
7. Aral SO, Over M, Manhart L, Holmes KK. Sexually Transmitted Infections. Disease Control Priorities in Developing Countries. 2006.
8. Genital Herpes Treatment and Care. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. December 8, 2021.
9. Perfect MM, Bourne N, Ebel C, Rosenthal SL. Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for the Treatment of Genital Herpes. Herpes. October 2005.
10. Genital Herpes: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. November 22, 2022.
11. Saleh D, Yarrarapu SNS, Sharma S. Herpes Simplex Type 1. StatPearls. August 29, 2022.
12. Genital Herpes in Pregnancy. InformedHealth.org. July 12, 2018.
13. Giakoumelou S, Wheelhouse N, Cuschieri K, et al. The Role of Infection in Miscarriage. Human Reproduction Update. January 2016.
14. Li D-K, Raebel M, Cheetham T, et al. Genital Herpes and Its Treatment in Relation to Preterm Delivery. American Journal of Epidemiology. December 1, 2014.
15. Genital Herpes — CDC Detailed Fact Sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. July 22, 2021.
16. McQuillan G, Kruszon-Moran D, Flagg EW, Paulose-Ram R. Prevalence of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 in Persons Aged 14–49: United States, 2015–2016. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. February 7, 2018.
17. STD Health Equity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. March 2, 2020.
18. Gonzalez JS, Hendriksen ES, Collins EM, et al. Latinos and HIV/AIDS: Examining Factors Related to Disparity and Identifying Opportunities for Psychosocial Intervention Research. AIDS and Behavior. May 23, 2008.
19. Pouget ER, Kershaw TS, Blankenship KM, et al. Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Undiagnosed Infection With Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2. Sexually Transmitted Diseases. September 2010.

Additional Sources

• Dental Dam Use. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. June 2, 2021.
• Tesini BL. Roseola Infantum. Merck Manual. September 2022.
• AIDS-Related Lymphoma Treatment (PDQ) — Patient Version. National Cancer Institute. October 7, 2022.

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8 myths about herpes – GBUZ “Crimean Central District Hospital” MH KK

Herpes is a common viral disease, with a characteristic rash of clustered blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. The famous ancient Greek historian Herodotus wrote about this unpleasant disease even before our era. It was he who gave her the appropriate name (from the Greek “herpein” – to crawl), thanks to the ability of herpetic ulcers to “spread” in different directions from the primary bubble. For many centuries of “communication” with herpes, humanity has recreated many myths about this disease, the most common of which we asked to comment on the acting head of the Health Center of the State Budgetary Institution of Health “TsOZiMP” of the Ministry of Health of the Territory Irina Volkova.

Myth 1. Herpes is not contagious.

– Exactly the opposite. Herpes is transmitted by airborne droplets (when coughing, sneezing, talking), contact (when kissing, using shared utensils, lipstick) and sexually. Perhaps also infection of the child from the mother at birth.

Myth 2. Herpes is a manifestation of the “cold”.

– In fact, herpes is an independent disease that predetermines the herpes simplex virus. It is usually activated during hypothermia, stress, overwork, exacerbation of chronic diseases or a decrease in general immunity.

Myth 3. If a rash appears on the lips, the cold subsides.

– A common point of view, which, however, has nothing to do with reality. The appearance of a rash means that a respiratory infection has weakened the immune system, and this has given the herpes virus the opportunity to actively act.

Myth 4. If the rash is gone, herpes is cured.

– That would be great, but, unfortunately, it is impossible to remove the virus from the body. He stays with a person for life, and you can only force him to be in a “sleeping” state.

Myth 5. You can get herpes only if you have a rash.

– Indeed, in the active phase of the disease, a greater number of viral particles are released and the likelihood of infection is higher. But the infection can be transmitted at any time through invisible microtraumas of the skin and mucous membranes.

Myth 6. A condom completely protects against infection with genital herpes.

– A condom does reduce the risk of infection, but, unfortunately, it does not give a 100% guarantee. Transmission of the virus can take place through parts of the body that are not covered by a condom.

Myth 7. The best treatment for herpes is cauterization with alcohol, iodine or brilliant green.

– Cauterization does not affect the herpes virus and its activity, but it is very easy to burn damaged skin and mucous membranes in this way. It is better to gently lubricate the rash with an antiseptic that does not contain alcohol so that a purulent infection does not join. Manifestations of the disease are treated with special antiviral drugs. If you have herpes, be sure to consult a doctor!

Myth 8. Herpes affects only the skin and does not pose a particular danger to humans.

– In fact, herpes is the second leading cause of death from viral infections, second only to SARS. The herpes simplex virus is built into the genome of nerve cells, so the rash occurs at the sites of nerve endings and is accompanied by severe pain. Theoretically, herpes can be everywhere where there is nervous tissue, and therefore – in almost any organ. With a decrease in general and local immunity, herpetic inflammation can develop in the mucous membrane of the mouth and larynx, cornea and conjunctiva of the eye, lymph nodes, internal genital organs, intestines, liver, kidneys, lungs and central nervous system. Moreover, genital herpes significantly increases the risk of cervical cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.

Herpes is a very insidious disease, which is much easier to prevent than to cure. Remember this, strictly follow the rules of personal hygiene!

Earlier, a therapist at the Health Center of the State Budgetary Institution of Health “TsOZiMP” of the Ministry of Health of the Territory spoke about the prevention of psoriasis.

GBUZ “Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention” of the Ministry of Health of the Krasnodar Territory

Herpes – KVD No. 2

What is a herpes infection?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The disease is caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 or 2 (HSV – 1.2) type – Herpes Simplex Virus.

Herpes is manifested by the appearance of reddening of a small area of ​​the skin, itching, the appearance of one or more blisters, then the blisters open with the formation of painful sores that heal with the formation of crusts. The first case of diseases is more acute than repeated ones, and takes from 2 to 4 weeks. HSV-1 most often affects the skin of the face, lips, mouth, cornea of ​​the eye, and less often the genitals. HSV type 2 affects the genitals and anus, and therefore often this virus is called genital herpes. Herpetic infection is a chronic disease, once it enters the body, HSV remains in it, living in the nerve endings, for life. Some people may not have exacerbations of the disease, while others experience exacerbations very often. The latent course of the disease is the cause of the easy spread of infection.

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Ways of herpes infection

HSV-1 infection occurs mainly in childhood and adolescence by airborne droplets or by contact (kissing, etc.). Sexual transmission is also possible through oral-genital contact.

Infection with genital herpes (HSV-2) occurs through direct sexual contact. Infection can occur both with an exacerbation of infection in a sexual partner, and with the carriage of the virus. However, the risk of infection is much higher if one partner has herpetic eruptions on the skin and mucous membranes and there is close contact with the skin and mucous membranes of the other sexual partner.

Exacerbations of genital herpes are provoked by hypothermia, physical and emotional stress, menstruation in women, sexual intercourse, concomitant diseases (flu, etc.) and ultraviolet radiation.

The virus can be transmitted to the fetus from an infected mother during pregnancy or childbirth.

Manifestations of herpes

Most of those infected do not have manifestations of the disease. The rest of the signs of herpes appear 2 to 20 days after infection.

Initially, there may be flu-like manifestations – slight fever, chills, weakness, fatigue.

A typical sign of genital herpes is the appearance of small (2-5 mm) fluid-filled blisters on the genitals, buttocks and anus. The rash is accompanied by itching and/or pain. Rashes can be located in the vagina, on the cervix, in the rectum. Within a few days, the blisters burst, turning into painful sores. After 1-2 weeks, the sores, covered with crusts, heal. Other manifestations: pain in the groin or on the inside of the thighs, painful urination, vaginal discharge in women or from the urethra in men.

Primary infection lasts about 3 weeks with severe manifestations.

When symptoms subside, the herpes virus leaves the lesion and enters the nerve cells of the sacral spine. During the next exacerbation, the virus goes through the nerves to the skin or mucous membranes, where it causes typical rashes.

After the initial episode of the disease, exacerbations occur several times (usually 4-5) during the year. In the future, the number of exacerbations decreases, the severity of manifestations decreases.

Complications of infection

Persons with a decrease in the body’s defenses experience very frequent prolonged exacerbations that cause both physical suffering and psycho-emotional discomfort.

It is possible to attach a secondary (bacterial) infection and then the deeper layers of the skin are involved in the inflammatory process, the exacerbation becomes protracted and requires changes in treatment.

Persons with genital herpes in the acute phase are more at risk of contracting HIV infection. HIV-infected people who have genital herpes in the acute stage are more likely to infect their sexual partners with the human immunodeficiency virus.

The effect of the disease on a pregnant woman and her child

Infection of the fetus occurs during pregnancy, a newborn during childbirth through an infected birth canal. Herpetic infection of newborns is very dangerous and can lead to the death of a child. If during childbirth a woman has herpetic eruptions in the genital area (birth canal) – this is an indication for a caesarean section. This dramatically reduces the risk of transmitting herpes to the newborn during childbirth. It is very important for a woman to avoid contracting genital herpes during pregnancy, since it is the initial episode of infection that is most dangerous for the fetus.

Diagnosis of herpes

The manifestations of genital herpes are varied, it is difficult to detect ulcers and distinguish them from ulcers caused by other diseases.

Diagnosis includes visual examination of the patient’s clinical signs if an exacerbation is typical. Scrapings from sores for HSV are being studied by PCR (polymerase chain reaction). It is very important to establish the microorganism that caused the clinical manifestations in order to prescribe the correct and timely treatment. Swabs and scrapings may cause minor discomfort. Additionally, a blood test is performed by ELISA to determine specific antibodies to HSV-2, the duration of the last exacerbation and the amount of antibodies are estimated. The ELISA method allows you to diagnose genital herpes without exacerbation.

Treatment of herpetic infection

Diagnosis and treatment of genital herpes, as well as other STIs, should be carried out in a specialized clinic – KVD, which has all the necessary tools for quick and accurate diagnosis.

Once infected with HSV, it is no longer possible to recover completely. There are no drugs that definitively cure herpes yet.