Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause painful sores and blisters in the genital area. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and is incurable, meaning that once you have it, it will stay with you for life. However, there are treatments available to help manage the virus and reduce the number of outbreaks. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir can be used to treat genital herpes.
These medications work by preventing the virus from multiplying, which can help reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks. Taking a small dose of anti-herpetic medicines every day can reduce the number of outbreaks by more than 90%. It is important to note that condoms are strongly recommended for people with genital herpes, as they can help reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others. Additionally, pregnant women should be monitored closely if they have genital herpes, as a virus outbreak during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth and can cause a fatal infection in the womb.
If you have been diagnosed with genital herpes, it is important to take steps to manage your condition. This includes avoiding triggers that may cause an outbreak, such as stress or fatigue, and practicing good hygiene. Additionally, it is important to talk to your doctor about any symptoms you may be experiencing and to get tested regularly for other STIs. Oral herpes is another form of HSV that can cause sores and blisters around the mouth, lips, or tongue.
It is mainly caused by HSV-1, although it's also possible to have an HSV-2 infection around the mouth. Outbreaks of oral herpes can last two to three weeks, which may be less than the two to six weeks after an outbreak of genital herpes. Shingles, also called herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox earlier in life. It cannot be transmitted to another part of the body after the first infection.
If you have blisters in your genital area, your doctor may request a test to determine if you have genital herpes. Many people who discover that they have herpes become depressed because they know that they will always have the virus and that they can transmit it to others. However, it is important to remember that there are treatments available to help manage the virus and reduce outbreaks. By taking steps such as avoiding triggers and practicing good hygiene, you can help keep your condition under control.
