STD - Genital Herpes

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DEFINITION

• Seeking information about genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

General Information

• Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2).
• Genital herpes is the most common STD. Close to 50 million persons in the United States have genital herpes.
• There is no cure for genital herpes; however, there are medications that can reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms.

Typical Symptoms of Genital Herpes

• Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters. They occur anywhere around the opening of the vagina or on the penis. Blisters dry out, crust over and heal in 7-10 days.
• The symptoms are worst during the first episode of genital herpes.
• Recurrences of genital herpes can occur and often are less painful and of shorter duration.
• People can have genital herpes and have no symptoms at all (asymptomatic).

Additional Resources

1. American Social Health Association
   • “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases”.
   • http://www.iwannaknow.org
2. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80.
3. Public Health Agency of Canada
   • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information
   • http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.html

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• PENIS SYMPTOMS (male genital symptoms)
• VULVAR SYMPTOMS (female genital symptoms)
• Questions about CHLAMYDIA, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about GONORRHEA, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about HIV, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about PUBIC LICE, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about TRICHOMONAS, a sexually transmitted disease

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WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

• You were forced to have sex (sexual assault or rape)

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

• You think you need to be seen
• Possible first episode of herpes with symptoms of:
  • Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters and
  • Occur anywhere around the penis or opening of the vagina.

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns
• You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease
• Possible first episode of herpes with symptoms of:
  • Painful, fluid-filled blisters that usually are grouped in clusters and
  • Occur anywhere around the penis or opening of the vagina.
• Pregnant and you had sexual intercourse with someone who was diagnosed with oral or genital herpes

Self Care at Home If

• No symptoms and you don't think you need to be seen
• Questions about genital herpes

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HOME CARE ADVICE FOR GENITAL HERPES

1. How is genital herpes transmitted?
   • Genital herpes is spread by sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal) or any direct contact with the genitals of a person who has an active herpes infection (initial episode or recurrence).
   • Many people do not know that they have genital herpes. A person can have no symptoms and still transmit the virus. As a result, most cases of transmission occur with neither sexual partners knowing that it is occurring.
   • Oral herpes (fever blisters) also can be spread to the partner's genitals during oral sex.
2. How long does it usually take for symptoms to appear once one is exposed?
   • The incubation period is 2 days to 2 weeks.
3. How can I get tested for herpes?
   • Genital herpes can be diagnosed with a specimen taken from a blister or by blood testing.
4. Is there treatment for genital herpes?
   • First episode - There are antiviral medications that can be used for genital herpes. Medication doesn't cure the disease, but can shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
   • Recurrent episodes - Antiviral medications can reduce and shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
5. I have genital herpes. How can I protect my sexual partner from getting herpes?
   • Inform your sexual partner that you have herpes.
   • Abstain from sexual activity with uninfected sexual partners whenever you have the herpes sores or feel them coming on.
   • Remember that you can transmit herpes even when you have no symptoms.
   • A latex condom can reduce the chance of transmission, if used correctly and if the condom covers the herpes sores.
6. STD National Hotline
   • The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention.
   • Toll-free number (English): (800) 227-8922
   • Toll-free number (Spanish): (800) 344-7432
   • Their website is at: http://www.ashastd.org/ 
7. Pregnancy Test When In Doubt:
   • If there is any possibility of pregnancy, obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the local drug store.
   • Follow the instructions included in the package.
8. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Pregnancy test is positive or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test.
   • Discharge from penis or unusual vaginal discharge
   • You become worse 

And remember, contact your doctor if you develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms. 

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