Genital Herpes Program

What is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV). Once contracted, the condition remains with you for life although, you may not always display symptoms or be infectious.

Herpes will go through phases of dormancy and outbreak. When dormant you will get no symptoms and have little risk of spreading the virus. When the infection is active you will likely display symptoms and become infectious to others.

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is commonly responsible for cold sores, although it may cause genital herpes if a blister is exposed to the genitals during oral sex.

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) is the primary virus responsible for genital herpes.

Genital herpes is very common, affecting up to 1 in 8 sexually active Australians.

Genital Herpes Causes

Genital Herpes is caused by skin to skin contact with HSV-1 or HSV-2. This usually occurs during sexual activity as HSV-1 and/ or HSV-2 are released from blisters on the mouth, anal or genital area.

HSV-1 and HSV-2 may be passed from mouth to genitals or vice versa during oral sex.

Contact with affected areas or bodily fluids is responsible for passing on herpes.

Genital Herpes Symptoms

Men

The symptoms of genital herpes in men are small blisters on the penis or genital area. These often rupture causing fluid to ooze from the area and pain upon urination. Other symptoms can include itching, pain, enlargement of lymph nodes around the groin and fever.

Women

The signs or symptoms of genital herpes in women are blistering or sores on or inside of the vagina. Because the blisters can be internal they are not always as obvious as in males. Other symptoms that could indicate an outbreak are itching/ burning in the vagina, swollen genital glands, painful urination, a change in vaginal discharge, fever and discomfort below the stomach.

Genital Herpes Diagnosis

There are two major ways of diagnosing herpes. The first involved swabbing an active blister and testing for the presence of HSV-1 or 2.

The second test is a blood test looking for the presence of either virus. This test can detect HSV1 or 2 even if no blisters/ symptoms are present. 

Genital Herpes Treatment

Genital Herpes treatment varies depending on individual health and needs and should be determined by a doctor.

Lifestyle Treatments

These techniques focus on speeding up the healing of herpes sores. These techniques include:

• Soaking the affected areas in a saltwater bath
• Keeping the area clean and dry
• Not touching the sores or scabs

How to Prevent Spreading Genital Herpes

If you are aware you have genital herpes you should advise any sexual partners to take precautions such as using barrier protection (condoms). This will prevent the spread of herpes in most cases. If you are experiencing an outbreak you should try and avoid sexual contact during this time.

Outbreaks can be caused by poor general health, as the immune system can experience drops in effectiveness. Attempt to manage the number of outbreaks by having a healthy diet, good sleeping patterns and minimising stress where possible.