Getting accurate information is crucial when dealing with herpes or concerns about infection. Herpes is treatable, so it's vital to understand your medical choices.
In 2021, the CDC estimated 572,000 new cases of genital herpes annually in the United States, with around 1 in 6 Americans (16.67%) having had a herpes infection.
This article covers genital herpes, its five stages, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods.
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) recognized by red bumps and white blisters in the genital area.
In 2016, the World Health Organization estimated that 3.7 million people under 50 had HSV-1, and 491 million people aged 15 to 49 had HSV-2.
This infection is caused by two herpes simplex viruses (HSV):
Beyond visible outbreaks, the virus can be present in bodily fluids like saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions.
Genital herpes symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:
In men, herpes symptoms may manifest as blisters around:
In women, herpes symptoms can include blisters around:
Additionally, women may notice an unusual vaginal discharge as part of their herpes symptoms.
The way a woman's body gets rid of fluid and cells is through vaginal discharge.
The amount, consistency, and appearance of vaginal discharge (e.g. pink, brown) will differ from person to person and will depend on:
Vaginal discharge is made up of fluids from the uterus, cervix, and vagina.
Your healthcare provider can often diagnose genital herpes by visually examining any visible sores. They may also collect a sample from these sores for testing. Without sores, a blood test can be conducted to detect HSV antibodies.
It's crucial to have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider about herpes testing and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
While the herpes blood test can determine if you have the virus, it cannot pinpoint the infection's source or the transmission time.
Predicting the onset of a genital herpes outbreak can be challenging, but symptoms typically manifest around two to 12 days after infection. Genital herpes is a complex condition that can be divided into five distinct phases:
Recognizing these five stages of genital herpes outbreaks can help individuals better manage the infection. The following section will delve into each Stage in more detail.
Genital herpes is a widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI) primarily transmitted through unprotected oral, anal, or genital sexual contact with an infected person.
The virus is most easily transmitted when the infected person has active blisters that are open and oozing.
Once the virus comes into contact with your body, it spreads through thin tissue layers called mucous membranes found in openings like your nose, mouth, and genitals.
The virus infiltrates your body's cells and tricks them into producing more viruses while hiding from your immune system's defences.
Although there's no cure for the herpes simplex virus, you can effectively manage its symptoms and flare-ups with proper treatment.
Antiviral medications are available for genital herpes infections, which can help in several ways:
The critical step is to consult a doctor, get tested, and initiate a treatment plan. Managing the condition can help you feel more in control and offer relief from both physical and mental distress caused by genital herpes outbreaks.
Treatment for genital herpes outbreaks typically involves oral antiviral medications. There are three primary types of drugs used to manage the symptoms of genital herpes:
These medications are taken in pill form. In severe cases, Acyclovir (Zovirax) can also be administered intravenously (IV).
While it's possible to contract the herpes simplex virus without sexual contact, most people acquire it through sexual activity with someone who has genital herpes sores. To protect yourself and others from herpes, consider these measures:
If your sexual partner has genital herpes, follow these steps to reduce the risk of transmission:
You can seek assistance from Mobi Doctor for medical advice and consultations.