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Genital Herpes
Moderate
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus, usually HSV-2 or HSV-1. It can cause painful blisters, sores, or ulcers around the genitals, anus, or nearby skin, although many infected people have mild or unrecognized symptoms. After infection, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks. Symptoms and recurrence patterns vary between individuals.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Genital herpes usually does not require emergency care, but medical assessment can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment. Seek prompt care for severe or extensive outbreaks, significant pain, difficulty urinating, fever, or worsening symptoms. Urgent medical attention is appropriate during pregnancy when genital herpes symptoms occur.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus, usually HSV-2 or HSV-1. It can cause painful blisters, sores, or ulcers around the genitals, anus, or nearby skin, although many infected people have mild or unrecognized symptoms. After infection, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks. Symptoms and recurrence patterns vary between individuals.
Symptoms 3
Breast Lump
Eye Pain
Sudden Weakness
Causes 1
Genital herpes results from infection with herpes simplex virus, most commonly HSV-2 or HSV-1. The virus enters through mucous membranes or small breaks in the skin and can be transmitted through sexual or intimate skin-to-skin contact. Transmission can occur when sores are present and can also occur when the infected person has no visible lesions because the virus may be shed from the skin without obvious symptoms.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk increases with sexual contact involving an infected partner, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent use of condoms or other barriers, and previous exposure to herpes simplex virus. Because transmission can occur without visible sores, a person may be exposed without knowing that a partner has an active infection. Other sexually transmitted infections or behaviors associated with increased sexual exposure can also increase risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis may be based on the appearance and location of characteristic genital lesions together with the person’s symptoms and sexual history. When lesions are present, a swab from a fresh lesion can be tested using molecular methods to detect herpes simplex virus. Blood tests may be useful in selected circumstances, particularly when there are no lesions but a specific clinical question about previous infection needs to be addressed.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Consistent condom or other barrier use can reduce, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of genital herpes transmission because uncovered skin can also transmit the virus
Avoid sexual contact when genital or oral lesions or other outbreak symptoms are present
People who know they have genital herpes should discuss the infection with partners and follow medical advice about antiviral treatment, including suppressive therapy when appropriate
Prevention Guidance
Consistent condom or other barrier use can reduce, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of genital herpes transmission because uncovered skin can also transmit the virus. Avoid sexual contact when genital or oral lesions or other outbreak symptoms are present. People who know they have genital herpes should discuss the infection with partners and follow medical advice about antiviral treatment, including suppressive therapy when appropriate.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Lysine-rich Foods
May support recovery
Fresh Fruits
Support immunity
Vegetables
Provide nutrients
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May trigger outbreaks
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A sexually transmitted viral infection.
Herpes simplex virus causes the infection.
There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be controlled.
Through sexual contact.
Yes, outbreaks may recur.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.