Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a common STI (sexually transmitted infection)  that is characterised by clusters of painful blisters on the genitals. It is caused by the Herpes Simplex virus. There are many types of herpes virus, the most common type to cause genital herpes is the Herpes Simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), although the Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is the virus most commonly seen in "cold sores"  around the lips can also infect the genital area.

Just like cold sores, infection occurs when the herpes virus enters the skin & travels along the sensory nerves where it remains in an inactive (latent) state. During an outbreak, the virus travels back down nerves to the skin where it multiples, causing a blister. There is no cure for genital herpes, once you have it, you have it for life.

Genital herpes is acquired via contact with an infected person sexually. This may be during intercourse but transmission can also occur during oral sex. Not everybody who is shedding the virus will be aware of it because they don't have lesions.

Genital herpes symptoms:

Approximately 1 in 8 sexually active Australians has genital herpes although not all will be aware they carry the infection. This is because not everybody who is infected has outward symptoms.

The first outbreak of genital herpes is often the most severe. This is because your body has had no prior exposure to the virus & therefore is slower to mount an immune response.

Some common symptoms of genital herpes include;

• Tingling & itching

• Redness & swelling

• Painful blisters on the genitals. These blisters burst leaving painful ulcers. The ulcers scab over & heal in around 10-14 days.

• After a two to three days these blister will crust over

• Flu like symptoms such as aching, sore muscles, fever, headache, swollen glands in the groin area.

• Painful urination.

What triggers further outbreaks of genital herpes?

There are several triggers that can bring on cold sores. These include;

• Sickness

• Stress

• Hormonal changes

• Fatigue

Diagnosis of genital herpes:

If you suspect you may have genital herpes it is important to speak to your doctor. They may be able to diagnose herpes if you have active lesions. Another method of testing is to swab active lesions which will then be sent to a laboratory for testing. Blood tests which check for HSV antibodies may also be performed.

Genital herpes treatment:

As we have mentioned, once you become infected there is no cure. There are ways to help prevent outbreaks or reduce the severity in the event of an outbreak. 

Antiviral tablets:

There are three types of antiviral medications available. FAMVIR (famciclovir), Zovirax®* (acyclovir), and Valtrex®* (valacyclovir). These can't cure herpes but can reduce the frequency, duration & severity of outbreaks. These medications work by interfering with viral replication.

The tablets can be taken in two ways depending on how frequently outbreaks occur.

Episodic treatment: Medication is taken as each outbreak occurs.

Suppressive treatment: This is used when outbreaks are more frequent. Medication is taken daily to prevent outbreaks.

Sometimes over the counter painkillers such as panadol can relieve discomfort.

L-Lysine is an amino acid that is believed to reduce the frequency & severity of cold sores.

Please consult your doctor if you suspect you have herpes, if you have frequent outbreaks of herpes or if they are slow to heal.

Preventing herpes:

• Don't have sexual intercourse when signs & symptoms are present.

• Always wear a condom. This isn't a guaranteed way to prevent the transmission of genital herpes but it does reduce your chances.

• Abstain from oral sex if you or your partner have a cold sore.

Neonatal infections:

To healthy adults, genital herpes are an annoyance but not dangerous. However, infection in newborns (neonatal herpes simplex)  can be very severe in newborns  & in some cases have lead to death. Infants are most commonly infected with HSV 2 (genital herpes) during delivery.

If you have symptoms of a cold sore or suspect you may be shedding the virus, avoid contact with newborn babies.

If you are planning to become pregnant, or are currently pregnant, notify your doctor.

Also see:

Bacterial Vaginosis, Cold sores, Genital Warts, Thrush

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.