Genital Herpes is caused by the Herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two HSV that cause genital herpes:
herpes simplex type 1 virus (HSV1) and
herpes simplex type 2 virus (HSV2).
HSV1 generally occurs in the upper half of the body, mainly around the lips and mouth (also known as the common 'cold sores') but can be transferred to the genitals during oral sex.
HSV2 usually causes genital herpes and can be spread through skin and genital contact.
Both types are very common, with about one in five adults being infected with HSV2. But interestingly, HSV1 as the cause of genital herpes is becoming increasingly common in young people.
Herpes blisters are usually irritating, painful and sore to touch. There may be redness around the blisters and the glands in the groin may become swollen and tender. After a couple of days, the blisters break and form shallow ulcers.
BUT... many people with HSV infections do not have anyobvious symptoms and can still pass the virus onto their sexual partners. This is called ‘asymptomatic shedding’ of the virus.
How do you get it?
It’s spread through unsafe sexual contact. You can get genital herpes through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Both girls and guys can get genital herpes. The risk is highest during a herpes outbreak, as well as just before and a week after the outbreak. Remember that herpes can be passed on even if your partner doesn’t have a visible ulcer or blister, which can make it hard to know if you’re at risk.
What’s the treatment?
There is no cure for genital herpes so it is normal for people with HSV to get recurrent episodes of lesions or sores in their genital area.
However there are antiviral medication available that can relieve symptoms by making them less severe and less frequent.
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