Genital Herpes

What is genital herpes?

• Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
• It causes painful blisters (bumps filled with fluid) on the skin around your genitals, buttocks, or anus. These blisters can break open and ooze, making it uncomfortable.

What causes it?

• Two types of herpes viruses cause it:
• HSV-1: Mostly causes cold sores, but can also cause genital herpes.
• HSV-2: Mainly causes genital herpes, but can also give you cold sores.
• These viruses are passed through skin contact or body fluids like saliva, semen, or vaginal fluids.

How do you know you have it?

• It usually takes 2 to 12 days for symptoms to show up after exposure.
• You might notice itching, tingling, or pain before blisters appear.
• Blisters can appear around the penis, vagina, anus, or even your mouth.
• After a while, the blisters may break open, leaving sores that crust over.

How is it treated?

• Unfortunately, there’s no cure for genital herpes, but antiviral medications can help reduce the pain and heal the sores faster.
• These medicines can also lower the chances of getting future outbreaks.

How can you prevent it?

• Always use a condom during sex to lower your risk.
• Avoid sex when someone has active symptoms (but note: herpes can spread even without visible sores).