Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). Most genital herpes is caused by HSV-2. Most individuals have no signs or symptoms from HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. When signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur. Typically, another outbreak can occur weeks or months after the first, but is almost always shorter and less severe than the first. Although the infection can stay in the body indefinitely, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease over a period of time.

Transmission

HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be found in and released from the sores that the viruses cause. They are also released between outbreaks. Transmission occurs through either oral-genital or genital-genital contact. Therefore, herpes infections can be spread without actually having sexual intercourse. Historically, most genital herpes infections have been caused by HSV-type 2. HSV-1 can cause genital herpes but it more commonly causes infections of the mouth and lips, called fever blisters or cold sores. The first outbreak usually occurs within two weeks after the virus is transmitted, and may be accompanied byflu-like symptoms including fever and swollen glands.Transmission is likely when lesions or other symptoms of herpes are present. It is important to know that even if a person does not have symptoms he or she can still infect sex partners.

Complications

Genital herpes can lead to potentially fatal infections in babies. If a woman has active genital herpes at delivery a cesarean delivery is uaually performed. Therefore, it is important to notify your doctor if you are pregnant and have herpes.

Treatment

There is no treatment that can cure herpes, but antiviral medications may shorten or prevent outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy for symptomatic herpes can reduce, but not prevent, transmission to partners.