What Is Genital Herpes? Facts You Should Know

Those that have invested even a modicum of time studying the subject of sexually transmitted diseases have likely come across references to genital herpes. Even a cursory mention of this STD will quickly reveal the problem is a pervasive one.

Millions of men and women all across the globe suffer from this problem. Sadly, many of them do not know they have the condition. As a result, they do not seek an effective treatment or adjust their sexual behavior.

This does little more than lead to genital herpes being spread to more and more persons. Upwards of 800,000 people in the United States suffer from genital herpes.

But, what is genital herpes and how is the condition spread. Hopefully, the following will be able to provide an answer to those with such questions.

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Defining Genital Herpes

The most basic definition of genital herpes would be these are blisters in the genital area spread by the HSV (herpes simplex virus). In addition to the genitals, these blisters can manifest on the cervix and even on the skin outside of the genital area.

It would be a misnomer to refer to the virus in the singular since there are two forms it can take: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

The Symptoms of Genital Herpes

While it is true that many people are not aware they are suffering from genital herpes, they might very well be aware of the symptoms of the condition. The most pronounced appearance of these symptoms occur in the immediate aftermath of being infected by the herpes virus.

These symptoms can even last for up to three full weeks. This is not to say the symptoms will go away completely when the three weeks have passed. The problems may return again in the future although they might not be as severe.

Among the common symptoms one would experience are:

Ulcers and blisters on the genital or cervix may manifest.
Discharge from the penis or vagina is likely.
Pain may occur and be quite pronounced when urinating.
Bright red blisters might appear on the genitals, thigh, posterior and the rectum.

These blisters might be extremely painful and pan burst. After bursting, ulcers may emerge. The blisters will release a fluid when they burst and it is critical not to come in contact with the fluid or else you run the risk of spreading it to other areas of the body.

Other common symptoms might not be confused as being the result of a condition other than genital herpes. A general flu like feeling of sickness can overcome a person. This might be accompanied with a fever.

Obviously, such a condition can lead someone to believe he or she does have the flu. As a result, the person will not think much of the problem and avoid having any full checkup performed.

Also, cold sores around the mouth may form when a person is infected with herpes.

The Symptoms Might Disappear But The Infection Remains

While it is possible for the symptoms of genital herpes to disappear, this does not mean the person has been cured of the problem. There is no cure for genital herpes, medical or otherwise. The symptoms may go into what seems to be remission, but the virus is still present. As a result, anyone that is carrying the virus can give it to someone else.

The Way In Which Genital Herpes Is Spread

Genital herpes are spread through sexual intercourse. This means vaginal, oral and anal sex. Those that have unprotected sex with multiple partners will be at the greatest risk for contracting genital herpes. This does not mean, however, those that do not have many sexual partners are not at risk.

Treatment For Genital Herpes

There is no known cure for genital herpes. The medical research community has not been able to develop any drugs that can get rid of the presence of the herpes virus. However, there are drugs which can keep the problem under control.

These antiviral can reduce the impact of the symptoms and make dealing with the virus more manageable.

How Can Your Tell For Sure If You Have Genital Herpes?

The only way to tell for sure if you have contracted genital herpes would be to have a complete evaluation performed by a doctor. Self-diagnosis would certainly not be recommended. Additionally, once the doctor diagnoses the problem, a proper treatment can then be suggested.