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GENITAL HERPES

Genital Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While HSV-2 is most commonly linked to genital herpes, HSV-1 (typically associated with oral herpes) can also cause genital infections through oral-genital contact.

Symptoms May Include:

  • Painful, fluid-filled blisters or ulcers in the genital or anal area.

  • Itching, burning, or tingling before blisters appear.

  • Pain during urination (dysuria).

  • Flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes.

Important Notes:

  • Asymptomatic Shedding: Some individuals show no symptoms but can still transmit the virus.

  • First Outbreak: Often the most severe, lasting 2–4 weeks.

  • Recurrences: Subsequent outbreaks are usually milder and shorter.

Transmission:

  • Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, even without visible sores.

  • Mother-to-Child: Rarely, during pregnancy or childbirth (risk of neonatal herpes).

  • Asymptomatic Shedding: Virus can be transmitted when no symptoms are present.

Treatment & Management:

  • Antiviral Medications (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir):

    • Reduce severity and duration of outbreaks.

    • Lower recurrence frequency with daily suppressive therapy.

    • Decrease transmission risk to partners.

  • Symptomatic Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, cool compresses, and keeping the area clean/dry.

Why It’s Chronic:
HSV remains dormant in nerve cells for life. Outbreaks may recur during stress, illness, or immune suppression.

Prevention Strategies:

  • Use latex condoms or dental dams during sex (not 100% protective but reduce risk).

  • Avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks or prodromal symptoms (tingling/itching).

  • Disclose HSV status to partners to enable informed decisions.

  • Pregnant Individuals: Inform healthcare providers to prevent neonatal transmission.

Why Professional Care Matters:

  • Accurate diagnosis via PCR testing or viral culture to distinguish HSV from other STIs.

  • Tailored treatment plans to manage symptoms and reduce transmission.

  • Counseling on coping with the emotional and social impacts of diagnosis.