Genital Herpes Information

Date: July 2004

Diagnosis

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of the virus and both can result in genital herpes. HSV type 1 commonly affects the lips causing sores and blistering commonly known as cold sores, fever blisters. The HSV type 2 is the most common cause of genital herpes however can also appear on the lips.

However, because the blistering may not always to visible to the naked eye, laboratory testing may be required to prove the symptoms are caused by the herpes virus. Even then the testing may prove to be inconclusive. Blood tests can show if someone has ever been infected at any time with HSV.

Transmission

Genital Herpes is most commonly spread through vaginal, oral or anal sex with an infected person. A person infected with Genital Herpes may unknowingly pass the virus on to their sexual partners because the physical symptoms of an outbreak can be very mild.

The virus that causes Genital Herpes can also spread through kissing and other skin to skin contact, although in the latter case infection is rare.

As the active phase of virus resides on the surface of the skin, condom use during sex is unlikely to prevent the spread of the virus.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of infection include:

• tingling, burning or itching sensations in the genital or anal area
• blistering
• pain in the legs, buttocks or genital area
• a discharge of fluid from the vagina

During the active infection phase of the virus people sometimes report feeling feverish, unwell or tired. Sometimes the lymph glands in the groin area become enlarged and are sore.

As the virus continues through its phases of infections, other noticeable symptoms include:

• small blisters with either a clear, white or red fluid
• Wet ulcers appearing when the tops of blisters come off. They could look like red swollen areas or small cuts.
• A dry crust or scab over ulcer as it begins to heal.

Effects

Serious problems are uncommon if the infection is left untreated, but many choose to treat the symptoms to improve their quality of life. Genital Herpes does not affect fertility in men or women. Pregnancy is also unaffected. Women with active genital herpes may choose an alternative to natural child birth to avoid infecting their baby with the virus.

Treatment

Genital Herpes has no cure but can be treated easily. Products on market currently include Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir (Famvir) and Valacyclovir (Valtrex). Other tricyclic antidepressants or carbamazepine, used to treat epilepsy, can also be effective. You are advised to avoid sexual contact while undertaking a course of any of the above medications to prevent the continued spread of infection.

Other measures that may help to reduce symptoms or prevent outbreaks altogether are:

• avoiding stress
• eating a balanced diet
• reducing the consumption of alcohol
• reducing the smoking of tobacco
• avoiding direct sunlight on the affected area, including the use of sun beds
• avoiding fatigue