Herpes comes in two types, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV – 1), better known as cold sores, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV – 2), also known as genital herpes, a sexually transmissible infection (STI), which is what this article is about.
It is estimated that one third of the world’s population has had symptomatic HSV-1 at some point in their lives. It is therefore a widespread disease. HSV-2 is also common worldwide, but the difference with HSV-1 is that HSV-2 is exclusively sexually transmitted and thus leads to herpes genitalis. Although genital herpes can also be caused by HSV-1, HSV-2 infection is the main cause. Approximately one tenth of the world’s population is infected with HSV-2, of which 2/3 are women and 1/3 are men. This is because the transmission of the virus from men to women is more effective than the other way around.
Herpes, baby, one more time
This article deals with the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of (genital) herpes. It is not intended as professional advice. We are not doctors, psychologists, social workers etc. and can only explain the terms and the context and refer to support services. For specialist treatment etc., please contact a help centre near you.
How do you get genital herpes?
Genital herpes is transmitted in direct contact with fluids from an infected person, even if there are no visible symptoms or sores, primarily during sexual intercourse. HSV can only remain infectious outside the body for a few days on moist surfaces due to its limited stability. Therefore, routes of transmission other than sexual intercourse are often minimal.
It has been found that HSV-2 and HIV create a strong synergy. Infection with HSV-2 increases the likelihood of contracting HIV almost threefold. If you are infected with both viruses, you are more likely to spread HIV to others. Also, HSV-2 infection is more common in people who are HIV-positive.
Symptoms of genital herpes
The symptoms of genital herpes can vary from person to person, with some people experiencing no symptoms at all and thus being asymptomatic. Herpes can appear in lesions, which is manifested by painful blisters and open sores. Before the blisters and sores appear, the infected person may experience burning, itching and tingling in the flare-up area. The frequency of recurrence also varies from person to person. The first genital herpes outbreak usually occurs 2–30 days after infection. Symptoms include painful blisters on the penis, scrotum or face.
But the most common symptoms include:
- Small, painful, fluid-filled blisters or sores on or around the genitals, anus or thighs
- Itching, burning or tingling in the affected area
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache and swollen lymph nodes
Get tested for genital herpes!
In general, testing for HSV is done with skin swabs through a sterile needle, urine swabs, the cervix with the vaginal speculum, urine, conjunctival and rectal swabs with proctoscopes at the affected sites.
How you can treat herpes
Unfortunately, there is no cure for HSV-2, but there are antiviral drugs that can help relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. In addition, early recognition of symptoms and rapid initiation of medication can lead to early inhibition of viral replication. In addition, abstinence from sex during the blisters and sores can reduce the likelihood of transmission. These medications can be taken as daily suppression therapy or as needed when an outbreak occurs. Over-the-counter painkillers and topical ointments can also help relieve symptoms.
When you first get genital herpes, it usually takes an average of 20 days to heal without treatment. However, the first outbreak can cause severe symptoms and sometimes complications. For this reason, it is advisable to take medication with the active ingredients aciclovir, famciclovir or valaciclovir. The tablets can shorten the outbreak by a few days and alleviate the symptoms. Subsequent outbreaks are then milder in their course, which may make treatment unnecessary, and heal within ten days on average.
How to prevent genital herpes?
The best prevention against genital herpes is to practice safer sex. This includes using a condom or a lick cloth during vaginal, anal and oral sex. Although these do not completely reduce the risk, they can reduce it to some extent. Unfortunately, HSV-2 can be transmitted through simple contact with the skin of the genital area that is not covered by a condom or lick cloth.
It is also advisable not to touch the bladders and siblings. If this does happen, the hands should be washed well.
Another measure is to avoid sexual intercourse when symptoms appear to prevent passing it on, and to avoid sexual contact with people who have visible symptoms of genital herpes. It is also important to get tested regularly for sexual diseases and to tell sexual partners if you have been diagnosed with genital herpes and/or have just had an outbreak of the virus. If you suspect you have genital herpes, it’s important to get tested or have symptoms more than six times a year – and talk to a doctor about treatment options.
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