Abbas Kanani, Lead medical advisor at Chemist Click reveals everything you need to know about this common STI.
What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
They key difference between the two is where you find them on your body. For example, most of HSV-1 infections are oral herpes which are transmitted through oral contact. These appear as blisters on the side of the mouth otherwise known as cold sores. HSV-2 is spread predominantly through sexual contact. The infection occurs in the genital area causing blisters and sores to appear.
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
- Small blisters around the genital, anus, thigh or buttock area that burst, leaving open sores that are usually red
- Burning, itching or a tingling sensation around your genitals
- Vaginal discharge that is unusual
- Pain on urination
When and how should I get tested for genital herpes?
You should get tested for genital herpes as soon as you develop symptoms. You can get tested at your local sexual health clinic or order a test kit online. The test involves swabbing a blister, the practitioner will try to swab and oozing lesion for a more accurate test.
When do the symptoms of genital herpes appear?
Symptoms for those who have contracted herpes for the first time usually occur within 1-2 weeks, this is known as the incubation period where the virus is multiplying in your body before it causes an outbreak. Re-infections can occur at any time, most usually appearing when your immune system is down.
How long do the symptoms of genital herpes last for?
The first outbreak of herpes is usually the most severe, lasting around 2-3 weeks. After this, outbreaks usually last for around a week, depending on when you started anti-viral treatment. Before an outbreak, you may notice a sensation of tingling, burning or itching around the genital region. This is usually a sign of an outbreak and the best time to start treatment, ideally before blisters begin to appear.
How often do genital herpes outbreaks occur?
Outbreaks of genital herpes vary, depending on the person. Whilst some people will never, or very rarely experience outbreaks, others will experience outbreaks of genital herpes several times a year. It is important to keep yourself healthy, as a strong immune system can help to suppress the herpes simplex virus.
Is herpes simplex curable?
There is no cure for herpes, but certain anti-viral treatments such as aciclovir and valaciclovir can relieve the symptoms of genital herpes. It is a common condition that many of us live a normal healthy life with.