Herpes

Line up 4 women. ~1 out of the 4 has genital herpes.


Line up 5 men. ~1 out of the 5 has genital herpes.


Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common STDs in the United States. Although most commonly caused by HSV-2, genital herpes may be caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. HSV-1 is usually seen on the mouth and lips usually called fever-blisters. HSV-2 is usually found in the genital area. It is possible to find HSV-1 in the genital area and HSV-2 in the oral area.

The signs and symptoms of HSV-2 is usually painful sores or blisters in the genital area. Sometimes the lymph nodes (glands) near the genital area are swollen. In some cases people may have body aches and chills. Many people who are infected do not experience these symptoms or only experience them on the initial outbreak. Outbreaks may be prevalent or non-existent in a person. Those with suppressed immune systems (HIV, cancer) will have more frequent and severe outbreaks.

To accurately diagnose HSV-2, a culture needs to be taken of active lesions that are not dried and crusted over. Blood tests are not reliable since HSV is a virus. This means that you must be experiencing an outbreak to get a diagnosis and the lesions should be wet. The test consists of sticking a swap/cutip-like apparatus into the active lesion(s) to capture the tissue affected. This swab is sent to a lab for testing.

There is no cure for herpes. It can be spread between break-outs but is more likely to be spread with active lesions and just before lesions appear with viral shedding. This is during a period often referred to as the prodromal period. During this time, symptoms are not present.

The only way to prevent getting herpes is through abstinence. Condoms may lessen the chance of spreading this disease but it is not guaranteed. Keep in mind that a condom may not cover the entire affected area because herpes lesions may be in other areas than the penis. Be careful with oral sex also since both types of herpes can be transmitted into the genital and oral areas. It is believed that women contract it more frequently and easily than men. Having herpes also increase your chances of contracting HIV!

There are medicines available to suppress the frequency of herpes outbreaks and to lessen the severity and length of an outbreak. Again, there is no cure. Some people, mostly those with suppressed immune systems, take this medicine daily or at regular intervals such as 3 times per week.

Visit your PCP or an NP for more questions or for care if you have this condition.