Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus called the herpes simplex virus (HSV)
There are two types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2.
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HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes (cold sores around the mouth) and HSV-2 more commonly causes genital herpes.
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However, both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause genital herpes.
Symptoms
Some people who are infected with HSV have no symptoms.
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However, women may experience the following symptoms:
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Pain, itching and/or tingling in the genital area or anus
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Flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, headache, tiredness, swollen glands)
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Abnormal vaginal discharge
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Blisters or sores in the female genital area (vulva, cervix or vagina), thighs and/ or anus.
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Painful urination
Diagnosis
If you think you may have genital herpes, you should see your doctor or attend a sexual health clinic.
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The doctor will ask you about your sexual history and symptoms.
They will also examine the genital area and anus and may perform an internal examination.
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If the doctor suspects that you have genital herpes then they may also swab any sores.
Complications
If genital herpes is left untreated, a woman may be at risk of the following complications:
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Meningitis
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Herpes infection in babies causes neonatal herpes which can lead to death if left untreated.
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Increased risk of contracting other STIs including HIV
Treatment
There is no cure for the herpes virus, however treatment can be offered to relieve symptoms during an outbreak.
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If you are diagnosed with genital herpes or there is high suspicion that you may have genital herpes, your doctor may prescribe you a course of antiviral medication (e.g. aciclovir) to shorten the outbreak.
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You should also contact any recent sexual partners as they may also be infected with HSV. This includes any individual with whom you have had sexual intercourse within 6 months.
You should also avoid sexual intercourse during an outbreak and treatment. If you do have sex, you should advise your partner to wear a condom.