Genital herpes infection

Description

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can cause sores on your genital or rectal area, buttocks, and thighs.

Causes and Risk Factors

Common risk factors include:

1. Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection

2. Pregnant mothers can also infect their babies during childbirth

Signs and Symptoms

You may not know of the disease, as herpes at times does not have symptoms or very mild symptoms. Symptoms of herpes are called outbreaks. They include:

1. Sores (blisters) near the area where the virus has entered the body

2. Sores on the genital or rectal area, buttocks, and thighs

3. Itching or tingling around your genitals

4. Backache

5. Flu like symptoms including fever, swollen lymph nodes

6. Fatigue

7. Headache

Investigations

Your doctor may recommend you to get some screening tests done.

Treatment

1. There is no cure. However, medicines can help lessen symptoms, decrease outbreaks, and lower the risk of passing the virus to others.

2. Effective use of latex condoms can reduce, but not eliminate the risk of catching or spreading herpes.

NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

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Disclaimer

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