Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a chronic viral infection caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, transmitted through sexual contact. While HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital infections, HSV-1 is increasingly responsible due to oral-genital transmission.

Symptoms may include painful blisters or ulcers in the genital or anal area, itching, burning, and discomfort during urination. The initial outbreak is often the most severe and may include flu-like symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes.

After the first infection, the virus remains dormant and can reactivate periodically. Recurrences are typically milder and less frequent over time.

Many people with genital herpes have no symptoms but can still transmit the virus through asymptomatic shedding.

There is no cure, but antiviral medications can:

Reduce outbreak frequency
Shorten symptom duration
Lower transmission risk to partners

Genital herpes is manageable, and most individuals live normal, healthy lives with minimal impact.

Genital Herpes

All Health Conditions