Understanding Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). Either type can infect the genital area. HSV-1 is also a common cause of oral herpes and can be transmitted to the genitals through oral sex.
Symptoms and recurrences
A first recognized episode can include painful blisters or ulcers, itching, burning, painful urination, swollen lymph nodes, fever, or other flu-like symptoms. Recurrences are often milder. Some people notice prodromal sensations such as tingling, itching, sensitivity, or discomfort before lesions appear.
Many HSV infections are mild or unrecognized. Because symptoms can resemble other conditions, a healthcare professional and appropriate testing are important when diagnosis is uncertain.
How transmission happens
HSV spreads primarily through direct skin-to-skin or mucosal contact with an infected area during sexual contact. Transmission can occur when visible lesions are absent because the virus can sometimes be shed asymptomatically.
Avoiding sexual contact during lesions or warning symptoms, using barriers such as condoms, and—when medically appropriate—suppressive antiviral therapy can reduce risk. No strategy eliminates risk completely.
Treatment
There is currently no approved treatment that removes latent HSV from the body. Antiviral medicines such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are used to treat episodes or suppress recurrences. Treatment choices and dosing should be discussed with a healthcare professional.