Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Causes, And When To Get Tested

What Is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It primarily affects the genital, anal, or surrounding areas. The infection typically leads to the development of painful blisters that can burst and turn into sores. 

Though it cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively through treatment. It's important to know that while symptoms may flare up, they often resolve on their own, and outbreaks can become less frequent over time.

Genital herpes is a common condition that many people experience, and it's understandable to have questions about it. While the symptoms can be concerning, it’s important to remember that the condition is manageable, and you're not the only one facing it. 

How Many People Have Genital Herpes?

It’s estimated that about 1 in 6 people (aged 15–49) worldwide have genital herpes caused by HSV-2. Many do not realise it because symptoms may be absent or mild. Here’s a breakdown of the prevalence:

• 1 in 10 people may have genital herpes, but the numbers could be higher, as many people don’t show symptoms.
• Around 50-80% of adults have been exposed to the herpes simplex virus, yet only a fraction develop symptoms.
• The majority of infections are caused by HSV-2, but HSV-1, typically linked to cold sores, can also cause genital herpes.
• The virus can stay dormant in the body, and asymptomatic individuals can still spread the infection, making it important to test even without visible symptoms.
• Testing is crucial, as it helps understand whether or not you carry the virus, even in the absence of sores.

What Does Genital Herpes Look Like?

The appearance of genital herpes can vary, but typically, it involves small, painful blisters around the genital area. Here’s what to expect:

• Blisters that burst to form red, open sores, which can be painful, especially when touched.
• They might appear on the genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks, with symptoms possibly showing after 2-12 days of exposure to the virus.
• The blisters may appear in clusters and can cause significant itching, burning, and tingling sensations.
• For individuals with darker skin tones, the sores may appear less red or darker.
• Other symptoms include painful urination, unusual discharge, and discomfort during sex.

What Causes Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes causes are linked to the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which comes in two types:

1. HSV-1: Most commonly responsible for oral herpes (cold sores) but can also cause genital herpes, particularly through oral-genital contact.
2. HSV-2: The primary cause of genital herpes, often transmitted through sexual contact.

The infection occurs when the virus enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes. The virus then travels to nerve endings near the site of infection, where it can remain dormant for long periods. When triggered by factors like stress, illness, or hormonal changes, the virus can reactivate, causing an outbreak.

The virus is highly contagious, especially during an outbreak, but it can also be passed on when no visible symptoms are present.

How Does Genital Herpes Spread?

Genital herpes is transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact. Here’s how it typically spreads:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected with the virus can transmit HSV.
• This sexually transmitted infection can spread even when there are no visible sores, so people can unknowingly pass the virus to others.
• Direct contact with the infected area (blisters, sores, or the skin around them) is the primary mode of transmission.
• HSV-1 can spread to the genital area if someone with oral herpes engages in oral sex, transferring the virus to the genital region.
• The virus can be transferred via fingers if they touch infected areas and then come in contact with the genital area.
• Sharing sex toys can also spread the virus unless proper hygiene is observed, including washing the toys and using condoms.
• Towels, toilet seats, or swimming pools do not carry the virus, as it cannot survive without direct skin contact.

What Are the Symptoms of Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes causes often go unnoticed, but when symptoms do appear, they are typically as follows:

• Painful blisters or sores around the genital area that burst and become open sores.
• Itching, burning, or tingling sensations before blisters appear.
• Painful urination caused by sores or blisters near the urethra.
• Unusual vaginal or penile discharge may occur, but it is less common. Foul-smelling discharge is not a typical feature of genital herpes and may suggest another infection (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis).

Genital herpes symptoms often appear 2 to 12 days after exposure, but some people may not experience any signs at all, which is why testing is vital.

First Genital Herpes Outbreak

The first outbreak of genital herpes is often the most severe, with symptoms appearing within days of infection. During this initial episode:

• Blisters can appear in clusters and break open, forming sores.
• You might experience pain, swelling, and burning sensations in the genital area.
• It’s also common to experience flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle aches.
• The first outbreak may last for up to 2 to 4 weeks, but the virus then typically becomes dormant, and subsequent outbreaks are often less severe.

How Does Genital Herpes Appear During Recurrent Outbreaks?

In most cases, after the initial outbreak, genital herpes causes will remain dormant in the body. Recurring outbreaks are usually milder and shorter than the first. During recurrent outbreaks:

• Blisters may appear again, but the intensity and duration are often reduced.
• Outbreaks tend to occur in the same area as the first episode.
• Some people experience prodromal symptoms like tingling or itching before the outbreak.
• Recurrent outbreaks tend to happen less frequently as time goes on, and some individuals may not experience them at all.

How Is Genital Herpes Diagnosed?

Diagnosing genital herpes typically involves a combination of clinical examination and laboratory testing. Here’s how it’s done:

• Visual examination: A doctor or healthcare provider will look at the sores or blisters and take a medical history.
• Swab test: If sores are present, a sample of fluid from the blister can be taken and tested for the presence of the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
• Blood test: A blood test can check for antibodies, helping to diagnose the virus even if there are no active sores present.

Testing is crucial, as symptoms may not appear for weeks or even years after the initial infection.

Genital Herpes Treatment Options

There is no cure for genital herpes symptoms, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks:

• Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity of symptoms and speed up healing.
• Over-the-counter pain relief can help ease discomfort. General “antiseptic” or “antifungal” creams are not effective for herpes sores.
• Lifestyle changes, including stress management and avoiding triggers, can help manage symptoms.

Antiviral Medication for Genital Herpes

Antiviral medications are commonly prescribed for genital herpes treatment. Here’s how they help:

• Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are the most commonly prescribed drugs for herpes.
• These medications help reduce the frequency of outbreaks, alleviate symptoms, and shorten the duration of episodes.
• They can be taken during an outbreak to speed healing or daily as suppressive therapy to prevent recurrent outbreaks.
• Though they do not cure the virus, antiviral drugs can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to others.

At-home Care for Genital Herpes

If you’re managing genital herpes at home, here are some tips to ease symptoms:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry using mild soap and water to avoid irritation.
• Apply petroleum jelly or pain-relieving creams to soothe the sores and reduce discomfort.
• Wear loose clothing to avoid friction on the sores and reduce pain.
• Avoid tight underwear that could irritate the affected area.
• Drinking water helps maintain hydration, and urinating while sitting in a warm bath or pouring water over the genitals can reduce stinging during urination.

Who Is Most at Risk for Genital Herpes?

You may be more at risk for genital herpes if:

• You have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex.
• You are exposed to oral herpes through oral-to-genital contact.
• Your immune system is weakened due to conditions like HIV or medications such as chemotherapy.
• If your partner has a known history of genital herpes, especially during outbreaks.

What Are the Complications of Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes usually does not cause severe complications, but possible risks include:

• Neonatal herpes: If a pregnant woman has genital herpes during delivery, there is a risk of passing it to the baby, which can be severe.
• Increased risk of HIV: Having genital herpes can make it easier to acquire or transmit HIV.
• Psychological impact: The diagnosis can cause emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or social stigma.
• Recurrent outbreaks: While most people experience fewer outbreaks over time, some may continue to have frequent episodes.

Also Read:  HIV Test: Types, Procedure, Timing and Results

How Do You Know if You Have Genital Herpes?

If you’re wondering whether you have genital herpes, here are key signs to look for:

• You may notice painful sores or blisters around the genitals, anus, or thighs.
• Some people experience tingling, itching, or burning sensations around the genital area before sores appear.
• You might also notice painful urination or unusual discharge. 

If you suspect you have genital herpes symptoms, seek a medical diagnosis through testing.

Living with Genital Herpes: Emotional & Social Impact

Being diagnosed with genital herpes can take an emotional toll. Feelings of shame, guilt, or embarrassment are common. It’s important to:

• Understand that genital herpes is a manageable condition.
• Reach out to supportive friends, family, or a counsellor to help you cope with emotional challenges.
• Communicate openly with sexual partners to reduce the risk of transmission and build understanding.

Genital Herpes Prevention Tips

While there is no way to eliminate the risk of genital herpes, here are ways to lower your chances of contracting or spreading the virus:

• Use condoms during any form of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex, though they may not fully protect against herpes.
• Avoid sexual contact during an outbreak or if you experience early symptoms like tingling or itching.
• Do not share sex toys without using protection.
• If you or your partner has genital herpes, consider daily antiviral medication to reduce the risk of transmission.

By staying informed and practising safe behaviours, you can follow genital herpes prevention effectively and live a healthy life.

Conclusion

In summary, while genital herpes can be concerning, it is a manageable condition with the right care and attention. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and how it spreads empowers you to take control of your health. 

If you are uncertain or need testing, Metropolis Healthcare offers convenient, reliable, and accurate diagnostic services. With over 40 years of experience, they provide online test bookings, home sample collection, and expert consultations, making it easy for you to get tested and receive the care you deserve.

FAQs

How contagious is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is highly contagious, spreading through skin-to-skin contact, even when no visible symptoms are present, especially during outbreaks.

Can you get genital herpes from someone who has cold sores?

Yes, HSV-1, the virus causing cold sores, can be transferred to the genital area through oral sex, resulting in genital herpes.

Can I get genital herpes more than once?

Yes, you can experience recurring outbreaks of genital herpes, but they are typically less severe and frequent as time goes on.

How did I get herpes if my partner doesn’t have it?

You may have been exposed to genital herpes through a previous partner or from someone unaware they carry the virus asymptomatically.

Can my partner have genital herpes and not me?

Yes, your partner can have genital herpes without showing symptoms, as the virus can be spread asymptomatically.

How does genital herpes affect pregnancy?

Genital herpes can pose risks to a baby during delivery, particularly if it’s a first-time infection, potentially leading to neonatal herpes.

Is it safe to breastfeed if I have genital herpes?

Yes, breastfeeding is generally safe if you have genital herpes, provided there are no active herpes lesions on your breasts. If lesions are present on or near the nipples, breastfeeding should be avoided until they heal.

How long does it take for genital herpes to go away?

The first outbreak of genital herpes can last up to 2-4 weeks, but subsequent outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe.

How long does genital herpes last?

Recurrent genital herpes outbreaks usually last 7 to 10 days, but the first outbreak may last 2 to 4 weeks, though they vary in duration depending on the severity and treatment.

Can your body get rid of herpes?

No, once infected, the herpes simplex virus remains in your body, lying dormant in the nerve cells, though outbreaks can be managed.