Things you should know about genital herpes and its prevention

Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus and is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) by the number of current cases.  Genital herpes is caused by one of the two different types of viruses, Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Genital herpes is extremely and can transmit the virus without having any symptoms of an active infection. HSV-1 has traditionally been associated with an infection in the mouth, while HSV-2 typically infects the genitals. However, recent research shows that the majority of cases of genital herpes are with HSV-1.

Herpes viruses can affect the mouth and ano -genital areas of men and women.

Do you have genital herpes?

Many people with HSV-1 or HSV-2 don’t experience any visible symptoms during an outbreak of herpes.  It is therefore possible to have herpes without actually being aware that you have it and the only way to be sure is to undertake a herpes test.Common symptoms of oral and genital herpes can include:

• Pain, burning, or itching on the lips, mouth or genitals.
• Cold sores on the lips or around or inside the mouth, which may initially look like shallow ulcers. Without treatment, these sores last several days to a few weeks before clearing up on their own.
• Small blisters on or around the penis, vagina, or anus that usually break and form small scabs before healing within a few days.
• A burning sensation while urinating if the sores are near the urethra
• At first time of outbreak you may have flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands.

How do you prevent the risk of spreading or contracting genital herpes?

Genital herpes virus is usually spread by contact with broken blisters or sores on the genitals, mouth, or rectal area. This infection can be passed from one person to other during sexual intercourse. You may spread it with your hands if the virus gets on your hands or in any part of your body. If you are sexually active the best way to prevent herpes virus is to avoid having unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse.

You can do the following things to lower your chances of getting herpes:

1. Avoid kissing people or sharing items like utensils and lip balm when cold sores are present.
2. Avoid unprotected intercourse.
3. Avoid intercourse with a person who has sores on his or her genitals.
4. Keep your immune system in good shape by eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, taking plenty of rest and not smoking.
5. Take antiviral medicines as directed by your doctor.

How genital herpes can be treated?

There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medicines can help you manage outbreaks and relieve the symptoms.  Doctor Matt prescribes the following medicines:

• Aciclovir
• Famcyclovir (Famvir )
• Valaciclovir ( Valtrax)

These herpes antiviral medications can be taken either to treat or suppress outbreaks.

For Treatment for outbreaks:  Antiviral medicine can shorten the duration and severity of herpes symptoms. If you are prescribed by antiviral drugs to treat the symptoms of a herpes outbreak, you will need to take the medication as directed by your doctor.

For Suppressive therapy can decrease the likelihood of herpes outbreaks. Suppressive therapy may have other benefits as it may reduce the likelihood of developing asymptomatic outbreaks and can reduce the risk of transmitting HSV to your sexual partner.

If you suspect you have genital herpes or any sexual health  please visit your local GP who will offer you the best advice.