Descriptions
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV can cause blisters or sores on the genitals, anus, or mouth. Genital herpes is a common STI, with an estimated 43.2 million people aged 14 to 59 in the United States having HSV-2, the type of virus that most commonly causes genital herpes.
Symptoms of genital herpes:
The symptoms of genital herpes can vary from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience painful blisters or sores. The first outbreak of genital herpes is often the most severe, and it can occur anywhere from 2 to 20 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms of the first outbreak may include:
- Small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth.
- Pain, itching, or burning in the genital area.
- Painful urination.
- Swollen glands in the groin area.
- Fever.
- Body ache.
- Vaginal discharge.
Blisters usually break open within a few days and leave painful sores. The sores may take up to 2 weeks to heal completely.
After the first outbreak, most people with genital herpes will have recurrent outbreaks. However, these outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Recurrent outbreaks may be triggered by stress, illness, or other factors.
Prevention of genital herpes:
The best way to prevent genital herpes is to abstain from sexual activity. If you do choose to have sex, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of getting genital herpes:
- Use condoms during all sexual activity.
- Get tested for STIs regularly, especially if you have new sexual partners.
- Avoid sex if you or your partner has visible herpes sores.
- Getting vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine does not protect against HSV, but it can help protect against other STIs that can make it easier to get HSV.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to talk to your doctor about genital herpes. There are things you can do to reduce the risk of passing the virus to your baby.
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