Genital herpes: what you need to know about the virus that lives nearby
«Is it just a rash?» is the most common question in a dermatologist’s office.
Often, genital herpes is not detected during an examination, but… at an unexpected moment: a slight burning sensation, a few blisters — and anxiety that is difficult to suppress. Feelings of shame, fear of your partner’s reaction, searching for information on the Internet and uncertainty about where to start. But it is Knowledge is the best defense strategy. Genital herpes is not a rarity, not a sentence, and certainly not a «shameful topic,» but specific viral infection, which can be controlled.
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted viral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most commonly type 2 (HSV-2), less commonly type 1 (HSV-1). It is characterized by the appearance of painful blisters and ulcers in the external genital area, as well as a chronic course with periods of exacerbations and remissions.
How is the virus transmitted?
Sexually — the most common method of transmission
Oral-genital contact — HSV-1 can get on the genital mucosa
During childbirth - from mother to newborn
Through damaged skin or mucous membranes - upon contact with the lesion
After the first infection, the virus remains in the body forever, remaining latent in the nerve ganglia.
Symptoms of genital herpes
Primary infection:
Blisters or ulcers on the genitals, perineum, anus
Burning, itching, pain during urination
Fever, general weakness
Enlarged inguinal lymph nodes
Relapses:
Less intense, often just one or two elements
Can occur 1–5 times a year, sometimes more often when immunity is reduced
Duration - usually up to 7 days
What causes relapses?
Stress
Menstruation
Hypothermia or overheating
SARS
Excessive sun exposure
Immunosuppressive therapy
How is genital herpes diagnosed?
PCR — detection of HSV DNA in a scraping from a mucosa or ulcer
ELISA — determination of IgM (acute phase) and IgG (past or latent disease) antibodies
Virological culture — a less common method, but accurate
How dangerous is the virus?
Risk of transmission to a partner even without visible symptoms
Relapses that disrupt quality of life
High risk of neonatal infection with primary infection during pregnancy
Possible complication of other STIs
Psycho-emotional stress that lasts for years
How is genital herpes treated?
During exacerbation: Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir (oral or topical)
For frequent relapses: long-term suppressive therapy
In case of severe forms: comprehensive immune support, consultations with related specialists
Prevention: protection during sexual intercourse, awareness of both partners
Is it possible to completely recover?
No, the virus stays in the body for life. But with the right approach — control is possible, and the frequency of relapses may decrease until clinical manifestations disappear completely. Personal life does not end at this point - it simply begins to be guided by awareness.
Director of Medi Lab Plus LLC, a doctor of the highest category. Has over 45 years of practical experience in medicine and laboratory diagnostics. Founder and head of the laboratory since 2007. More details…