Genital herpes
There is no cure for herpes. Once infected, the virus can go through active spells for the rest of your life. Find out how to protect yourself here.
What is it?
There are two strands of the virus: Herpes simplex virus type 1 is usually milder and less likely to reoccur than Herpes simplex virus type II. Type 1 commonly causes cold sores around the mouth and can also affect the eyes, genitals and anal areas. Herpes simplex type II infects the skin around the genitals and anus, causing itchy blisters to develop. It may also affect the mouth and the eyes.
How is it caught?
In general, it is picked up and passed on through intimate sexual activity. Intercourse is the central risk, though there is some risk of transmission via oral sex. The total diagnosis of first attacks of genital herpes has increased by 4% between 2004 and 2005, according to the Health Protection Agency.
What are the symptoms?
- The first attack of herpes is usually the worst;
- Within 10 days of infection, males and females usually have a tingling sensation followed by small watery blisters in the genital or anal areas. These burst to leave painful sores, ulcers or crusts;
- Sometimes accompanied by feverish feeling, headache, temperature, swollen glands and aching muscles;
- Sores heal in one to four weeks, but the infection can return at any time;
- Following attacks are less severe, and happen on average about three times a year. During the active phase, the virus is highly infectious;
- Many people who get herpes don't have more attacks after the first one;
- Herpes can become active again if you are run down, stressed, or there is too much friction on the genitals from tight clothes or sex.
Tests and treatment
If you think you might have a sexually transmitted infection, sort it out straight away. Go to your nearest genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic, available at most large hospitals. GUM clinics provide free and confidential advice and treatment. Or you can make an appointment to see your GP.
- Antiviral tablets and liquids are available to help contain a herpes outbreak, but they must be taken quickly after the start of an attack;
- Passing urine during an outbreak can be painful, especially for women. Getting into a warm bath to pee may help ease the pain;
- Pain and fever is best dealt with by taking paracetamol and bed rest;
- Wash the ulcers with salty water, then keep them dry so they heal quicker;
- After touching affected areas, wash hands thoroughly - the virus can easily be spread to the eyes and mouth;
- If you have active herpes, do not have any kind of sexual contact, even if you usually use condoms and dental dams.
Complications
If a pregnant woman has active herpes when she gives birth, there is a risk that the virus can get into the baby's eyes and damage them.
Reduce your risk of infection. Make sex safer by using condoms every time.
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