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Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Genital herpes, which results from an infection with the herpes simplex virus, remains in the body for life after the first infection and can recur several times a year, particularly when the immune system weakens.
The primary mode of transmission of genital herpes is unprotected sexual contact, and the virus can potentially spread even during its dormant phase, when it does not cause any infections.
It is most commonly seen in individuals aged 15-49 globally, with around 15% of people in this age group infected with the virus.
Both men and women can be affected by this condition. The use of condoms is an effective method to prevent transmission. Here’s everything you need to know about genital herpes…
What is Genital Herpes (Genital Herpes)? What Causes It?
The herpes virus is a group of viruses that cause infections worldwide and has eight different types. Three of these are more common than others.
HSV-1 causes cold sores around the lips and mouth, HSV-2 causes genital herpes, and HSV-3 causes skin infections known as shingles, which affect nerve endings.
The herpes virus, referred to as HSV-2, leads to genital herpes, where fluid-filled blisters appear on the skin and mucosal layers of the genital area. These blisters can cause pain, itching, and discomfort. The virus enters the body through mucous membranes.
Once inside the body, the herpes virus easily integrates into the structure of cells, replicates rapidly, and spreads. Genital herpes can affect both men and women.
In men, the virus can be transmitted through semen (which contains sperm), while in women, it spreads through vaginal fluids.
The infection caused by genital herpes can disrupt daily life due to the discomfort it causes. Individuals experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention.
What Are the Symptoms of Genital Herpes?
Infection with the herpes simplex virus does not always cause symptoms right after transmission. In some individuals, the virus may remain dormant without causing the characteristic fluid-filled blisters for a period of time.
Symptoms usually appear between 2 and 30 days after transmission. The common symptoms of genital herpes, seen in both men and women, include:
These blisters can appear not only in the genital area but also around the anus and surrounding areas. The blisters and sores typically heal and disappear within 2-4 weeks.
Genital herpes tends to occur in flare-ups, with blisters potentially recurring up to four times a year. The number of flare-ups may increase during times of immune system weakening, feverish illnesses, or stress. While the virus remains in the body for life, the frequency and severity of flare-ups decrease with age.
Vaginal Herpes in Women
In women, genital herpes is also referred to as vaginal herpes or cold sores in the vagina. The most common symptoms include blisters around the anus, buttocks, vulva, and vagina.
Sometimes, if the blisters do not spread to the anus and buttocks, they may remain confined to the vagina, making them harder for the patient to detect. Common symptoms for these individuals include pain during sexual intercourse.
It is essential to inform the obstetrician during pregnancy if a woman has genital herpes, as the condition can increase the risk of premature birth and miscarriage.
Additionally, during vaginal birth (natural delivery), the virus can sometimes be transmitted to the baby, leading to neonatal herpes, a condition that can cause serious health problems such as blindness, brain damage, or even death.
If genital herpes is present, doctors may recommend a cesarean section to reduce the risk of neonatal herpes.
Genital Herpes in Men (Penile Herpes)
In men, genital herpes is commonly referred to as penile herpes. The most frequent symptoms are blisters on the penis, testicles (scrotum), buttocks, and anus.
During flare-ups, blisters on the penis can make sexual intercourse difficult. Genital herpes is less commonly seen in men than in women.
Due to the anatomical structure of male genitalia, genital herpes in men is typically easier to detect and diagnose than in women.
How is Genital Herpes Diagnosed?
Diagnosing genital herpes is relatively simple during flare-ups when individuals seek medical help. After taking a medical history and listening to symptoms, a physical examination is performed.
Because genital herpes has a very distinctive appearance, it can usually be diagnosed with a clinical examination alone.
In some cases, especially when the infection is mild, additional tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests may be used to check for the presence of the virus in individuals who do not seek medical attention during flare-ups.
In patients diagnosed with genital herpes, treatments to prevent, alleviate, and strengthen the immune system may be applied. Sexually active individuals will also be informed about preventive measures to avoid transmission.
Genital Herpes Treatment
Once the herpes virus enters the body, it becomes part of the cell structure and remains in the body for life. However, it only causes infections during flare-ups. Therefore, there is no definitive treatment for genital herpes.
Current treatments aim to reduce or prevent outbreaks of the virus. Antiviral medications are the most common method, which can help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the spread of blisters.
Antiviral creams for genital herpes can speed up the healing of blisters and sores, prevent further spread, and alleviate pain, itching, and other discomforts.
Additionally, regular cleaning of the affected area with warm water and thorough drying can help speed up the healing process.
Some individuals may be prescribed medications to prevent future outbreaks if they experience six or more flare-ups within a year.
Cotton underwear, which should be washed at high temperatures before use, is also recommended.
While many individuals seek out information on those who have successfully overcome genital herpes, the condition cannot be completely eradicated; it simply becomes more manageable with the right treatment.
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