What are the key facts about Type 1 genital herpes. How is it transmitted and what are the symptoms. Can Type 1 genital herpes be prevented. What treatment options are available for those infected with HSV-1 genital herpes.

Understanding Type 1 Genital Herpes: Causes and Transmission

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by two types of viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Traditionally, HSV-1 was associated with oral herpes, causing cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. However, HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes through oral-to-genital contact during sexual activities.

How does HSV-1 spread to the genital area? The virus can be transmitted through:

• Oral sex performed by a person with oral herpes (even if no visible sores are present)
• Direct skin-to-skin contact with infected areas during sexual activity
• Sharing of sex toys or other intimate objects without proper cleaning

Is Type 1 genital herpes less severe than Type 2? While HSV-1 typically causes less frequent and less severe outbreaks in the genital area compared to HSV-2, both types can lead to similar symptoms and long-term health implications. It’s important to note that many people with genital herpes, regardless of the type, may experience mild or no symptoms at all.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Type 1 Genital Herpes

Identifying Type 1 genital herpes can be challenging, as symptoms may be mild or mistaken for other skin conditions. Common signs of a genital herpes outbreak include:

• Small, painful blisters on or around the genitals, rectum, or mouth
• Itching or tingling sensation in the affected area
• Painful urination
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes)

How long does a typical outbreak last? The initial outbreak is often the most severe and may last 2-4 weeks. Subsequent outbreaks tend to be shorter and less intense, usually lasting 7-10 days. It’s crucial to remember that even without visible symptoms, a person can still transmit the virus to their sexual partners.

Diagnosis and Testing for Type 1 Genital Herpes

Accurate diagnosis of Type 1 genital herpes is essential for proper management and prevention of transmission. Healthcare providers may use several methods to diagnose the infection:

1. Visual examination of sores
2. Viral culture of fluid from blisters
3. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to detect viral DNA
4. Blood tests for HSV antibodies

Are blood tests always accurate for diagnosing Type 1 genital herpes? While blood tests can detect HSV antibodies, they cannot distinguish between oral and genital infections. Additionally, it may take several weeks after infection for antibodies to develop, leading to false-negative results in recent infections. For the most accurate diagnosis, it’s best to combine blood tests with other diagnostic methods and discuss your sexual history with your healthcare provider.

Prevention Strategies for Type 1 Genital Herpes

Preventing the transmission of Type 1 genital herpes requires a combination of safe sex practices and open communication with sexual partners. Some effective prevention strategies include:

• Using condoms and dental dams consistently during sexual activity
• Avoiding oral sex if either partner has visible cold sores
• Discussing STD status and testing history with new sexual partners
• Considering antiviral medication to reduce the risk of transmission

Can you completely eliminate the risk of contracting Type 1 genital herpes? While these prevention methods significantly reduce the risk of transmission, they cannot guarantee 100% protection. The virus can spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by condoms or dental dams. Additionally, asymptomatic shedding of the virus can occur even when no visible sores are present.

Treatment Options for Type 1 Genital Herpes

While there is no cure for Type 1 genital herpes, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks:

1. Antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir)
2. Topical creams to alleviate discomfort
3. Pain relievers for symptom management
4. Warm baths to soothe affected areas

How effective are antiviral medications in managing Type 1 genital herpes? Antiviral drugs can significantly reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks when taken at the first sign of symptoms. For individuals with frequent outbreaks, daily suppressive therapy with antivirals can decrease the number of episodes and lower the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

Living with Type 1 Genital Herpes: Emotional and Social Aspects

A diagnosis of Type 1 genital herpes can have significant emotional and social impacts. Many individuals may experience feelings of shame, anxiety, or depression. It’s important to address these emotional aspects of living with herpes:

• Seek support from trusted friends, family, or support groups
• Educate yourself about the condition to dispel myths and misconceptions
• Consider counseling or therapy to address emotional challenges
• Practice self-care and stress management techniques

How can one maintain healthy relationships with Type 1 genital herpes? Open and honest communication with sexual partners is crucial. Discussing your HSV status, explaining transmission risks, and sharing information about prevention methods can help build trust and maintain healthy relationships. Remember that many people with herpes have successful, long-term partnerships.

The Connection Between Type 1 Genital Herpes and Other Health Conditions

Type 1 genital herpes can have implications beyond its primary symptoms. Research has shown potential connections between HSV-1 infection and other health conditions:

• Increased susceptibility to other STDs, including HIV
• Potential complications during pregnancy and childbirth
• Rare neurological complications in immunocompromised individuals
• Psychological impact on mental health and well-being

Does having Type 1 genital herpes increase the risk of cervical cancer? Unlike human papillomavirus (HPV), HSV-1 is not directly linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer. However, it’s essential for individuals with genital herpes to maintain regular gynecological check-ups and screenings to monitor overall sexual health.

Pregnancy and Type 1 Genital Herpes

Pregnant women with Type 1 genital herpes should be particularly vigilant about managing their condition. The virus can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, potentially causing serious health complications. To minimize risks:

• Inform your obstetrician about your herpes status
• Consider antiviral suppression therapy during pregnancy
• Discuss delivery options with your healthcare provider
• Be aware of signs of an impending outbreak as delivery approaches

Can cesarean sections prevent transmission of Type 1 genital herpes to newborns? In cases where an active outbreak is present during labor, a cesarean section may be recommended to reduce the risk of transmission. However, for women without active lesions, vaginal delivery may still be possible with appropriate precautions.

Advances in Type 1 Genital Herpes Research and Future Prospects

The field of herpes research is continually evolving, with scientists exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures. Some promising areas of research include:

1. Development of therapeutic vaccines to boost immune response
2. Gene editing techniques to target the latent virus
3. Novel antiviral compounds with improved efficacy
4. Immunomodulatory therapies to enhance natural defenses

What is the current status of herpes vaccine development? While several vaccine candidates have shown promise in preclinical studies, none have yet proven successful in large-scale human trials. Researchers continue to work on developing both preventive and therapeutic vaccines, but it may be several years before an effective vaccine becomes available.

The Role of Microbiome Research in Herpes Management

Emerging research suggests that the human microbiome may play a role in herpes simplex virus infections. Scientists are investigating how the balance of microorganisms in the genital tract might influence:

• Susceptibility to HSV-1 infection
• Frequency and severity of outbreaks
• Effectiveness of antiviral treatments
• Potential for developing new probiotic-based therapies

Could probiotics help manage Type 1 genital herpes? While preliminary studies show promise, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of probiotic interventions in managing genital herpes. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may help boost local immune responses and reduce viral shedding, but these findings are not yet conclusive.

Public Health Implications of Type 1 Genital Herpes

The increasing prevalence of Type 1 genital herpes has significant public health implications. Health authorities and organizations are working to address these challenges through various initiatives:

• Improved sexual health education programs
• Expanded access to STD testing and treatment
• Destigmatization campaigns to reduce social barriers to care
• Integration of herpes management into comprehensive sexual health services

How can public health measures reduce the spread of Type 1 genital herpes? Comprehensive approaches that combine education, prevention, and accessible healthcare services are crucial. By increasing awareness, promoting safe sex practices, and ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment, public health initiatives can help reduce the transmission of HSV-1 and improve outcomes for those affected.

The Economic Burden of Type 1 Genital Herpes

The economic impact of Type 1 genital herpes extends beyond individual healthcare costs. Societal expenses include:

1. Direct medical costs for diagnosis and treatment
2. Indirect costs due to lost productivity
3. Expenses related to prevention and education programs
4. Research and development costs for new therapies and vaccines

What strategies can help reduce the economic burden of Type 1 genital herpes? Investing in prevention and early intervention can lead to significant long-term cost savings. This includes funding for comprehensive sexual education, improving access to affordable testing and treatment, and supporting research into more effective management strategies.

Navigating Relationships and Disclosure with Type 1 Genital Herpes

One of the most challenging aspects of living with Type 1 genital herpes is navigating relationships and the process of disclosure. Here are some strategies for approaching this sensitive topic:

• Choose an appropriate time and place for the conversation
• Provide accurate information about the condition and transmission risks
• Be prepared to answer questions and address concerns
• Discuss prevention methods and management strategies
• Allow time for the partner to process the information

When is the best time to disclose a Type 1 genital herpes diagnosis to a new partner? While there’s no perfect time, it’s generally recommended to have this conversation before engaging in sexual activity. This allows for informed decision-making and helps build trust in the relationship. Remember that honesty and open communication are key to maintaining healthy partnerships.

Overcoming Stigma and Misconceptions

Stigma surrounding genital herpes can be a significant barrier to seeking care and maintaining quality of life. To combat this, it’s important to:

1. Educate yourself and others about the facts of HSV-1 transmission and management
2. Challenge negative stereotypes and misinformation
3. Share personal experiences to humanize the condition (if comfortable doing so)
4. Advocate for inclusive and non-judgmental healthcare services

How can society work to reduce the stigma associated with Type 1 genital herpes? Promoting accurate, non-sensationalized information about herpes in media and educational settings is crucial. Additionally, healthcare providers can play a vital role by approaching the topic with sensitivity and providing comprehensive, judgment-free care to patients.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Type 1 Genital Herpes

While medical treatments are essential, many individuals find benefit in complementary approaches to managing Type 1 genital herpes. Holistic strategies may include:

• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises)
• Dietary modifications to support immune function
• Regular exercise to boost overall health and well-being
• Adequate sleep and rest to maintain immune system strength
• Alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal supplements (under professional guidance)

Can lifestyle changes reduce the frequency of Type 1 genital herpes outbreaks? While scientific evidence is limited, many individuals report fewer outbreaks when adopting a healthy lifestyle. Stress management, in particular, seems to play a significant role in reducing outbreak frequency for some people. However, it’s important to combine these approaches with standard medical care for optimal management.

The Role of Support Groups and Community Resources

Connecting with others who have Type 1 genital herpes can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Support groups and community resources offer:

1. A safe space to share experiences and coping strategies
2. Access to up-to-date information about herpes management
3. Opportunities to participate in advocacy and awareness initiatives
4. A sense of community and reduced feelings of isolation

Where can one find reliable support groups for Type 1 genital herpes? Many organizations offer online and in-person support groups for individuals with herpes. Local health departments, sexual health clinics, and reputable STD advocacy organizations are good starting points for finding these resources. Additionally, some healthcare providers may be able to recommend support groups or counseling services in your area.

In conclusion, while Type 1 genital herpes presents challenges, it is a manageable condition that does not define an individual’s worth or potential for healthy relationships. By staying informed, seeking appropriate medical care, and utilizing available support systems, those affected by HSV-1 can lead fulfilling lives and maintain their overall well-being. As research continues to advance, there is hope for improved treatments and potentially a cure in the future. In the meantime, open communication, education, and destigmatization efforts play crucial roles in addressing the personal and public health aspects of Type 1 genital herpes.

STD Facts – Genital Herpes

People who are sexually active can get genital herpes, a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). This fact sheet answers basic questions about genital herpes.

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is an STD caused by two types of viruses – herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

What is oral herpes?

HSV-1 often causes oral herpes, which can result in cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth. However, most people with oral herpes do not have any symptoms. Most people with oral herpes get it during childhood or young adulthood from non-sexual contact with saliva.

Is there a link between genital herpes and oral herpes?

Yes. Oral herpes caused by HSV-1 can spread from the mouth to the genitals through oral sex. This is why some cases of genital herpes are due to HSV-1.

How common is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is common in the United States. In 2018, CDC estimates show there were 572,000 new genital herpes infections in the United States among people aged 14 to 49.¹

How is genital herpes spread?

You can get genital herpes by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. You can get herpes if you have contact with:

• A herpes sore;
• Saliva from a partner with an oral herpes infection;
• Genital fluids from a partner with a genital herpes infection;
• Skin in the oral area of a partner with oral herpes; or
• Skin in the genital area of a partner with genital herpes.

You also can get genital herpes from a sex partner who does not have a visible sore or is unaware of their infection. It is also possible to get genital herpes if you receive oral sex from a partner with oral herpes.

You will not get herpes from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools. You also will not get it from touching objects, such as silverware, soap, or towels.

If you have more questions about herpes, consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider.

How do I know if I have genital herpes?

Most people with genital herpes have no symptoms or have very mild symptoms. Mild symptoms may go unnoticed or be mistaken for other skin conditions like a pimple or ingrown hair. Because of this, most people do not know they have a herpes infection.

Herpes sores usually appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum or mouth. This is known as having an “outbreak”. The blisters break and leave painful sores that may take a week or more to heal. Flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, body aches, or swollen glands) also may occur during the first outbreak.

People who experience an initial outbreak of herpes can have repeated outbreaks, especially if they have HSV-2. However, repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Although genital herpes is a lifelong infection, the number of outbreaks may decrease over time.

Ask a healthcare provider to examine you if:

• You notice any symptoms; or
• Your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD.

STD symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly genital discharge, burning when peeing, or bleeding between periods (if you have a menstrual cycle).

How will my healthcare provider know if I have genital herpes?

Your healthcare provider may diagnose genital herpes by simply looking at any sores that are present. Providers can also take a sample from the sore(s) and test it. If sores are not present, a blood test may be used to look for HSV antibodies.

Have an honest and open talk with your healthcare provider about herpes testing and other STDs.

Please note: A herpes blood test can help determine if you have herpes infection. It cannot tell you who gave you the infection or when you got the infection.

How can I prevent genital herpes?

The only way to completely avoid STDs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting genital herpes:

• Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who does not have herpes.
• Using condoms the right way every time you have sex.

Be aware that not all herpes sores occur in areas that a condom can cover. Also, the skin can release the virus (shed) from areas that do not have a visible herpes sore. For these reasons, condoms may not fully protect you from getting herpes.

If your sex partner(s) has/have genital herpes, you can lower your risk of getting it if:

• Your partner takes an anti-herpes medicine every day. This is something your partner should discuss with his or her healthcare provider.
• You avoid having vaginal, anal, or oral sex when your partner has herpes symptoms (i.e., during an “outbreak”).

Is there a cure for genital herpes?

There is no cure for genital herpes. However, there are medicines that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. A daily anti-herpes medicine can make it less likely to pass the infection on to your sex partner(s).

What happens if I don’t receive treatment?

Genital herpes can cause painful genital sores and can be severe in people with suppressed immune systems.

If you touch your sores or fluids from the sores, you may transfer herpes to another body part like your eyes. Do not touch the sores or fluids to avoid spreading herpes to another part of your body. If you do touch the sores or fluids, quickly wash your hands thoroughly to help avoid spreading the infection.

If you are pregnant, there can be problems for you and your unborn fetus, or newborn baby. See “I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby?” for information about this.

I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby?

If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, prenatal care visits are very important. Some research suggest that a genital herpes infection may lead to miscarriage or make it more likely to deliver your baby too early. You can pass herpes to your unborn child before birth, but it more commonly passes during delivery. This can lead to a deadly infection in your baby (called neonatal herpes). It is important that you avoid getting genital herpes during pregnancy. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had a genital herpes diagnosis or symptoms. Also tell them about any possible exposure to genital herpes.

If you have genital herpes, you may need to take anti-herpes medicine towards the end of your pregnancy. This medicine may reduce your risk of having signs or symptoms of genital herpes when you deliver. At the time of delivery, your healthcare provider should carefully examine you for herpes sores. If you have signs or symptoms of genital herpes at delivery, a ‘C-section’ is likely to occur.

Can I still have sex if I have herpes?

If you have herpes, you should talk to your sex partner(s) about their risk. Using condoms may help lower this risk but it will not get rid of the risk completely. Having sores or other symptoms of herpes can increase your risk of spreading the disease. Even if you do not have any symptoms, you can still infect your sex partners.

You may have concerns about how genital herpes will impact your health, sex life, and relationships. While herpes is not curable, it is important to know that it is manageable with medicine. Daily suppressive therapy (i.e., daily use of antiviral medication) can lower your risk of spreading the virus to others. Talk to a healthcare provider about your concerns and treatment options.

A genital herpes diagnosis may affect how you will feel about current or future sexual relationships. Knowing how to talk to sexual partners about STDs is important.

What is the link between genital herpes and HIV?

Herpes infection can cause sores or breaks in the skin or lining of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. Even without visible sores, herpes increases the number of immune cells in the lining of the genitals. HIV targets immune cells for entry into the body. Having both HIV and genital herpes increases the chance of spreading HIV to a HIV-negative partner during oral, vagina, or anal sex.

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Herpes Simplex (HSV-1 & HSV-2) Virus: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Causes Herpes Infections and Outbreaks?
• What Are the Symptoms of Herpes Simplex?
• How Is Herpes Simplex Diagnosed?
• How Is Herpes Simplex Treated?
• How Painful Is Herpes Simplex?
• Can Herpes Be Cured?
• More

Herpes simplex viruses — more commonly known as herpes — are categorized into two types: herpes type 1 (HSV-1, or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 (HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected person may have sores around the genitals or rectum. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist.

Herpes simplex type 1, which is transmitted through oral secretions or sores on the skin, can be spread through kissing or sharing objects such as toothbrushes or eating utensils. In general, a person can only get herpes type 2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. It is important to know that both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be spread even if sores are not present.

Pregnant women with genital herpes should talk to their doctor, as genital herpes can be passed on to the baby during childbirth.

For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions:

• General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions)
• Fatigue
• Physical or emotional stress
• Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids
• Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity
• Menstruation

Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas — usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.

Often, the appearance of herpes simplex virus is typical and no testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA — or PCR — tests and virus cultures.

Although there is no cure for herpes, treatments can relieve the symptoms. Medication can decrease the pain related to an outbreak and can shorten healing time. They can also decrease the total number of outbreaks. Drugs including Famvir, Zovirax, and Valtrex are among the drugs used to treat the symptoms of herpes. Warm baths may relieve the pain associated with genital sores.

Some people experience very mild genital herpes symptoms or no symptoms at all. Frequently, people infected with the virus don’t even know they have it. However, when it causes symptoms, it can be described as extremely painful. This is especially true for the first outbreak, which is often the worst. Outbreaks are described as aches or pains in or around the genital area or burning, pain, or difficulty urinating. Some people experience discharge from the vagina or penis.

Oral herpes lesions (cold sores) usually cause tingling and burning just prior to the breakout of the blisters. The blisters themselves can also be painful.

There is no cure for herpes simplex. Once a person has the virus, it remains in the body. The virus lies inactive in the nerve cells until something triggers it to become active again.

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Genital herpes | Dikul Center

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The main way the virus spreads is through sexual contact. After infection, the virus can be in an inactive state in the body and reactivate periodically – several times a year.

Genital herpes can cause pain, itching and sores in the genital area. But in some people, the genital virus does not show any symptoms. But the absence of symptoms and external manifestations, such as sores, does not exclude the possibility of infecting another person.

There is no cure for genital herpes, but medications can relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of infecting others. Using a condom can also help block the spread of the genital herpes virus.

Symptoms

Most people who become infected with HSV may not know they are infected because they may not have signs or symptoms, or they may be very mild.

A person may become symptomatic about a few days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms of a genital virus may include:

• Pain, discomfort or itching in the genital area while the infection is active.
• Small red vesicles or small white blisters. These rashes may appear days or weeks after infection.
• Ulcers – may form after rupture of blisters. Ulcers may ooze or bleed and cause pain when urinating.
• Scabs. Ulcers may crust over and form scabs as they heal.
• During the initial outbreak of the virus, the patient may have signs of acute respiratory infections (flu), such as headache, muscle pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes.
• Differences in the location of symptoms
• Ulcers appear where the infection has entered the body. The infection can spread if a person scratches or rubs the primary lesion and then gets into various areas of the body, including the eyes, with their hands.

In men and women, ulcers may appear in the area of:

• Buttocks and thighs
• Anusa
• Mouth
• In the urethra

In women, ulcers may appear in:

• Vaginal areas
• In the vulva
• In the cervix

Men can also get ulcers:

• On the penis
• On the scrotum

Relapses occur quite often.

Genital herpes in each person proceed differently. Symptoms and external manifestations may appear intermittently over many years. Some people have multiple episodes each year, but for most, the recurrence rate decreases over time.

During a relapse, in the period before the appearance of ulcers, a person may feel:

• Burning, itching and tingling in the area where the infection has entered the body.
• Pain in the lumbar region, buttocks and legs

Typically, relapses are less symptomatic and ulcers heal faster than the initial outbreak.

Causes

Two types of herpes simplex virus can cause genital herpes:

• HSV-1. This type of herpes virus causes rashes or blisters around the mouth. HSV-1 is usually transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, but can also spread to the genital area during oral sex. Relapses with this type of herpes occur much less frequently than with HSV-2 infection.
• HSV-2. This type of virus leads to the development of genital herpes. The virus is transmitted through sexual contact and skin contact. HSV-2 is highly contagious whether a person has an open sore or not.

However, given that the virus quickly dies outside the body, the risk of infection through contact with objects used by an infected person is almost impossible.

Risk factors

The risk of contracting genital herpes is higher:

• Women are more likely to get genital herpes than men. The virus is more easily transmitted through sexual intercourse to a woman than to a man.
• Having multiple sexual partners greatly increases the risk of contracting the virus that causes genital herpes.

Complications

Genital herpes can lead to the following complications:

• Genital ulcers significantly increase the risk of contracting other STDs, including the AIDS virus.
• Neonatal infection – Babies can become infected with the virus during childbirth. Infection with the virus can lead to damage to the central nervous system, visual impairment, and even lead to death of the newborn.
• Bladder dysfunction. In some cases, ulcers that are associated with genital herpes can lead to inflammation of the urethra. Inflammatory edema can even lead to obstruction of urine flow, which may require bladder catheterization.
• Meningitis. Quite rarely, HSV infection can lead to inflammation of the membranes of the brain and the development of meningitis
• Proctitis. Genital herpes, in some cases, leads to an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the rectum.

Prevention

The basic principles for preventing genital herpes are the same as those recommended to minimize the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections:

• Restriction of sexual intercourse to only one healthy person.
• Use of a latex condom with every sexual intercourse.
• Avoid sexual intercourse if the partner has herpes lesions in the genital area or elsewhere.

Precautions during pregnancy

If a woman has or is suspected of having genital herpes during pregnancy, a doctor should be consulted for an examination.

Your doctor may recommend taking antiviral drugs for herpes later in pregnancy to prevent the virus from reactivating during childbirth. If the activation of the virus occurred during labor, then a caesarean section may be recommended.

Diagnosis

A doctor can verify genital herpes based on a physical examination and certain laboratory tests:

• Viral culture is a diagnostic procedure in which a tissue sample or scraping of an ulcer is taken for examination in a laboratory.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. PCR allows you to determine the presence of the virus and identify the type of HSV
• A blood test for the presence of antibodies to HSV, which allows you to determine the fact that a person has had a herpes infection.

Treatment

There are no drugs that can completely destroy the genital virus.

Antivirals help:

• Healing of ulcers after the initial outbreak.
• Reduce the severity of symptoms in relapses
• Reduce relapse rate
• Minimize the risk of transmitting the herpes virus to another

Antivirals used for genital herpes include:

• Acyclovir (zovirax)
• Valaciclovir (Valtrex)

Your doctor may recommend taking medications only when you have symptoms of activation or as a prevention of relapse. These antivirals are well tolerated and have few side effects.

Genital herpes: recurrent virus

Herpes is a well-known disease of a viral nature, which is characterized by damage to the skin and mucous membranes. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus, localization can be different, including on the genitals. In this case, herpes is called genital. We will talk about it in our article.

Herpes simplex viruses are divided into herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). It used to be thought that genital herpes was caused by a type 2 virus.

Contrary to popular belief, genital herpes can be caused by both HSV-2 and HSV-1; the clinical manifestations of these viruses are indistinguishable from each other.

The source of infection is a person – a sick person or a virus carrier, infection mainly occurs through direct contact.

The incubation period is usually 2 to 12 days. Then, at the site of infection, a rash appears in the form of small vesicles filled with liquid. In the future, the bubbles open, and in their place small erosions appear, which soon heal.

The appearance of herpetic eruptions is accompanied by intense itching and burning, swelling, inflammation of the affected area, causes severe discomfort, worries the patient very much and reduces his quality of life.

Herpes is a relapsing disease. Therefore, its clinical manifestations are usually classified as primary and recurrent herpes.

Primary herpes is the onset of the disease after the first contact with the virus. As a rule, clinical manifestations in primary herpes are more pronounced, its course is longer.

After the symptoms of primary herpes disappear, the virus passes into a latent, inactive form, in which it is located in the nerve ganglia. At this time, antibodies to the virus appear in the blood, but, despite their presence, relapses of the disease periodically occur – recurrent herpes. As a rule, recurrent herpes is localized in the same areas of the genitals as the primary one.

Under the influence of various provoking factors (for example, hypothermia, a cold, or even simple stress), relapses of a herpes infection occur, the intervals between which can range from several days to several years.

Genital herpes is especially dangerous in pregnant women, as it can lead to infection of the child. Infection can occur transplacentally, since the herpes virus is able to overcome the transplacental barrier, or through direct contact during childbirth. In this case, there is a high risk of developing a generalized form of herpes, when, in addition to the general symptoms of intoxication and profuse skin rashes, lesions of the mucous membranes of the mouth, intestines, eyes, liver, adrenal glands, central nervous system, bronchi and lungs occur.