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| GENITAL HERPES |
Herpes is a common infection caused by a virus. There are different types of herpes viruses. The most common are herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV 1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2).
How you get it
Through oral, vaginal or anal sex. You can spread the virus even when you have no symptoms but you’re most infectious when you have blisters or sores around your mouth or genitals. You can get genital herpes from either HSV 1 or HSV 2. HSV 1 also causes ‘cold sores’ on the mouth and face. Symptoms can occur years after you were infected, which can explain why you might get herpes when you’re in a monogamous relationship.
Symptoms
A rash, blisters, broken skin or itching and sometimes pain with no apparent skin change. Herpes often causes blisters anywhere below your waist, including your anus, as well as the genital area. Genital herpes can be extremely painful
Testing
A swab is taken from the infected area.
Treatment
If you have frequent outbreaks, you could take antiviral medication, which won’t cure the herpes but will reduce the likelihood of it recurring and being spread. Antiviral drugs can also be prescribed for severe outbreaks. You can use anaesthetic gels to relieve pain and antiseptic on the sores, although you should discuss this with your doctor because your genitals are easily irritated. Saltwater baths may also relieve the genital pain, as would taking aspirin or paracetomol.
Prevention
You must tell any prospective sex partners if you have herpes; an STI counsellor can advise you on how to manage your sex life around having herpes. Use condoms but be aware that herpes is spread by skin to skin contact, and condoms offer only limited protection. if you have unusual symptoms around your genitals, buttocks or anus (rash, blisters, sores, skin pain) don’t have sex until you see your doctor. Don’t allow any other person to have contact with your herpes sores. Herpes can still be spread even if no visible sores are present.
Consequences
Herpes attacks can reoccur. If you’re pregnant, tell your doctor if you’ve had herpes because it’s possible to infect the baby during delivery if you have blisters.
source: yoursexhealth.org
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