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Genital Herpes is a blister like area in the genital area that is the result of a viral infection called Herpes Simplex Virus.

This condition can also be referred to as Herpes Genitalis

Herpes Simplex (HSV) is divided into two categories – HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Typically HSV-1 is above the waist and HSV-2 is below the waist. Genital Herpes is therefore most often HSV-2. But there is an increased finding of HSV-1 in the genital area.

Typically this virus causes little to no problems in most of the population. 45 million people in the United States are affected. Women are 4 times more likely to become infected than men.

Symptoms

–  Begin 4-7 days after sexual exposure to HSV
–  Genital Sores
–  Blister like areas
–  Painful vesicles
–  Similar to cold sores
–  Blister areas turn into scabs
–  Burning Sensation
–  Itching
–  Headache
–  Fever
–  Muscle Aches
–  Painful urination
–  Herpetic Proctitis – occurs due to inflammation of anus and rectum

Areas Most Often Affected:

Men

–  Tip of penis
–  Shaft of penis
–  Groin region
–  Lower Abdomen
–  Thighs
–  Buttocks
–  Anas

Women

–  Near Pubis
–  Labia
–  Clitoris
–  Vulva
–  Lower Abdomen
–  Thighs
–  Buttocks
–  Anas

Transmission

Passing of Herpes Simplex occurs during sexual activity.

Condoms do not completely prevent transmission.

Transmission occurs primarily through the exchange of saliva, semen, cervical or vesicular fluid.

Often it is believed that transmission can occur only during active Herpes blisters, but this is not true.

Granted, the likelihood is greater during actual symptoms.

But, transmission can occur by viral shedding prior to and following the typical symptoms.

Treatment

No cure for Genital Herpes

Some drugs can shorten the duration of the outbreak

1.)  Acyclovir
2.)  Famiciclovir
3.)  Valacyclovir

–  All three drugs are antiviral medications