STD - GENITAL HERPES
Symptom Definition
- Seeking information about genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Typical Symptoms of Genital Herpes
- Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters. They occur anywhere around the opening of the vagina or on the penis. Blisters dry out, crust over and heal in 7-10 days.
- The symptoms are worst during the first episode of genital herpes.
- Recurrences of genital herpes can occur and often are less painful and of shorter duration.
- People can have genital herpes and have no symptoms at all (asymptomatic).
General Information
- Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2).
- Genital herpes is the most common STD. Close to 50 million persons in the United States have genital herpes.
- There is no cure for genital herpes; however, there are medications that can reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms.
See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If
- PENIS SYMPTOMS (male genital symptoms)
- VULVAR SYMPTOMS (female genital symptoms)
- Questions about CHLAMYDIA, a sexually transmitted disease
- Questions about GONORRHEA, a sexually transmitted disease
- Questions about HIV, a sexually transmitted disease
- Questions about PUBIC LICE, a sexually transmitted disease
- Questions about TRICHOMONAS, a sexually transmitted disease
WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR GENITAL HERPES
Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If
- You were forced to have sex (sexual assault or rape)
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If
- You think you need to be seen
- Possible first episode of herpes with symptoms of:
- Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters.
- They occur anywhere around the penis or opening of the vagina.
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If
- You have other questions or concerns
- You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease
- Possible first episode of herpes with symptoms of:
- Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters.
- They occur anywhere around the penis or opening of the vagina.
- Pregnant and you had sexual intercourse with someone who was diagnosed with oral or genital herpes
Self Care at Home If
- No symptoms and you don't think you need to be seen
- Questions about genital herpes
HOME CARE ADVICE FOR GENITAL HERPES
- How is chlamydia transmitted?
- Genital herpes is spread by sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal) or any direct contact with the genitals of a person who has an active herpes infection (initial episode or recurrence).
- Many people do not know that they have genital herpes. A person can have no symptoms and still transmit the virus. As a result, most cases of transmission occur with neither sexual partners knowing that it is occurring.
- Oral herpes (fever blisters) also can be spread to the partner's genitals during oral sex.
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How long does it usually take for symptoms to appear once one is exposed?
- The incubation period is 2 days to 2 weeks.
- How can I get tested for herpes?
- Genital herpes can be diagnosed with a specimen taken from a blister or by blood testing.
- Is there treatment for genital herpes?
- First episode - There are antiviral medications that can be used for genital herpes. Medication doesn't cure the disease, but can shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
- Recurrent episodes - Antiviral medications can reduce and shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
- I have genital herpes. How can I protect my
sexual partner from getting herpes?
- Inform your sexual partner that you have herpes.
- Abstain from sexual activity with uninfected sexual partners whenever you have the herpes sores or feel them coming on.
- Remember that you can transmit herpes even when you have no symptoms.
- A latex condom can reduce the chance of transmission, if used correctly and if the condom covers the herpes sores.
- STD National Hotline
- The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention.
- Toll-free number (English): (800) 227-8922
- Toll-free number (Spanish): (800) 344-7432
- Their website is at: http://www.ashastd.org/NSTD/
- Pregnancy Test When In Doubt: If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store.
- Call Your Doctor If:
- Pregnancy test is positive; or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test.
- Discharge from penis or unusual vaginal discharge
- You become worse or develop any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms.
References and Resources
- American Social Health Association
- “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases”.
- http://www.iwannaknow.org
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80.
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Public Health Agency of Canada
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information
- http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.asp
Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.