Symptoms

Genital Herpes

Often there are none. The most common symptom is a cluster of blistery sores - usually on the vagina, vulva, cervix, penis, buttocks, or anus. Symptoms may last several weeks and go away. They may return in weeks, months, or years. The Herpes Simplex 2 virus causes genital herpes.

General Syptoms include:

• Blisters (The time from exposure to Herpes until blisters develop varies
  between 2-12 days.)

• Open sores

• Pain in the infected area

• Itching

• Burning feelings if urine flows over sores

• Inability to urinate if severe swelling of sores blocks the urethra

Very severe first episodes may have symptoms that include:

• Fever

• Chills

• Headache

• General run-down feelings

The symptoms of later episodes are usually less severe than the first.

How is herpes spread?

Touching, kissing, and sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex can spread herpes. It can be passed from one partner to another and from one part of the body to another. Skin can be infected if it is cut, chafed, or burned, or has a rash or other sores.

How is herpes diagnosed?

• Clinicians diagnose herpes by testing fluids taken from the sores

• Examination of the vulva or penis

• Swabs taken from the area

• A blood test can tell if you have been exposed to the herpes virus - even if you don't have symptoms.

Is there a cure for herpes?

No. Although there is no effective treatment available to cure Herpes, research is ongoing into an anti virus drug. It is possible to get tablets from the doctor to kill the pain.

It is important to keep the woman's vagina cool and well aired, bathe in cool salt water. Rest as much as possible and avoid sex until the attack has cleared.
It is important to dry the sores after bathing, perhaps even using a hand held hair
dryer to get rid of any residual moisture. However, in most cases outbreaks become fewer and weaker over the course of a few years. They usually end within five or six years.

How to avoid getting herpes:

• Have routine check-ups for sexually transmitted infections.

• Abstain from sexual intercourse if you are not in a faithful relationship. Don't have sex even if using a condom. The virus can spread from sores not covered by the condom. It can also spread in sweat or vaginal fluids to places the condom doesn't cover. Having sex, even with a condom, will irritate the sores, and they will take longer to heal.

• If you get the sores, don't touch them. If you do, wash your hands with soap and water - this kills the virus.

• If you have a cold sore on your mouth, don't kiss anyone - especially infants, children, or pregnant women.

Where to get tested?

Urgent referral is necessary for immediate treatment and to identify the exact type of virus present. Only a clinician can make a correct diagnosis through laboratory tests. And the medicines are only available through prescription.