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Thirty-one million Americans have genital herpes -
that works out to one in six people between 15 and 74 years old.
Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which enters through
mucous membranes and sets up permanent residence at the base of the
spine. The herpes virus remains in the body for life. There are two
types of HSV: Type I, which involves sores on the mouth and lips, and
Type II, which involves sores in the genital area.
Common Symptoms
Burning or difficulty while urinating Genital discharge Flu-like symptoms Small, painful blisters around the genitals or mouth lasting 1-3
weeks Itching, burning, or redness around genitals Genital swelling Sore or tender lymph nodes
Symptoms appear between one and thirty days after transmission, and
may appear and disappear periodically (some studies have linked levels
of stress to herpes outbreaks). Some people have either no or mild symptoms,
but genital herpes may be transmitted regardless of the presence of
symptoms.
How Is It Transmitted?
Oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone with genital herpes, or contact
with herpes sores. Herpes can be transmitted when no sores are present,
however, the presence of sores increases the risk of transmission during
sexual contact. Never have sex, even safer sex, while sores are present.
Having sex, even safe sex, while sores are present, is a very high-risk
activity.
Prevention
Condoms can be helpful, but they will generally not cover all of the
area infected. Do not come in contact with sores, but if you do, wash
any area that may have been contaminated.
Testing
A health care practitioner can usually identify sores on sight, but
either the Tzanck test or viral cultures can be done to confirm presence
of the virus. Only viral cultures can distinguish between Type I and
Type II. Blood tests can also be used to measure the level of herpes
antibodies in the blood.
What May Happen If You Don't Get Treated
Risk of transmitting genital herpes to sexual partners. A pregnant mother with herpes risks miscarriage, stillbirth, or
transmitting herpes to her child during childbirth.
Treatable?
There is no cure for genital herpes. Outbreaks can be treated
with oral medications such as Valtrex, Famvir, and Zovirax. The sooner
these are taken, the shorter the outbreaks. Other treatments include
vitamin supplements, herbs (Echinacea, chlorophyll, wheatgrass), acupuncture
treatments, and warm baths during outbreaks.
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