When it comes down to it, many people tend to turn a blind eye to signs of genital herpes, as they fear being judged by their partner, and at times medical professionals. What many tend to forget, is just how common the herpes simplex virus (both type 1 and type 2) are, and that there is truly nothing to be ashamed of.
Whether you are worried of contracting genital herpes, or simply curious about the virus, this post will share the 4 must-know facts about genital herpes so that you can have a better idea of what the virus is, how you can protect yourself, the symptoms, and where/when to seek treatment.
What are genital herpes?
It is a sexually transmited infection (STI) known as the herpes simplex virus. Once contracted, the virus lives within you and may or may not show physical symptoms. If contracted, those who show symptoms can expect to experience them anywhere from 2-21 days following sexual contact.
1. How to Protect yourself from Genital Herpes (HSV2)
The best ways to protect yourself from contracting herpes simplex (or genital herpes) is to:
- Practice protected sex with the use of condoms
- Have open discussions with your partner to ensure that they are up to date with STI testing
- Avoid sexual intercourse with your partner during an outbreak from either party, and speak to a skincare physician/ encourage your partner to speak to a physician
- Avoid sexual contact with your partner until genital sores are completely healed
2. How common are Genital Herpes (HSV2)?
It is a common virus that affects anywhere from 10%-60% of populations worldwide. In developed countries where antiviral treatments are more accessible for genital herpes, half of genital herpes cases (HSV2) result from untreated HSV1 or cold sores, as many don’t know the correlation between the two.
Furthermore, since most HSV2 carriers don’t show physical signs of the virus, the virus is commonly spread unknowingly, ultimately affecting more people.
3. Signs that you may have Genital Herpes (HSV2)
Although doesn’t always come with signs, skincare physicians always recommend regular STI testing, especially when interacting with a new sexual partner.
Otherwise, common signs to look out for may include:
- Itching
- Burning
- Tingling sensation
And in severe cases:
- Red swollen sores
- Swollen glands
- Fever
- Body aches
- Painful genital sores in the vulva, vagina, and penis
4. How are Genital Herpes Treated?
Since herpes simplex is a virus, there is no cure once contracted. However, symptoms associated with the virus such as genital sores, itching, and burning can be treated with an oral antiviral medication to alleviate discomfort.
If you or your partner believe you may be experiencing a herpes outbreak, it is important to seek medical attention immediately for testing. This will help you identify the risk of spreading the virus to your partner, and will allow you to treat your symptoms to alleviate discomfort.
Other suggestions that you may find useful is to bathe in warm water to ease pain, keep the area dry, and to apply an ice pack to the infected area to reduce inflammation.
Where to seek treatment for genital herpes (HSV2)?
If you are in Vancouver, BC and believe that you may be experiencing symptoms of the HSV-1 or HSV-2 virus, we invite you to book a consultation with skin care physician Dr. Shehla Ebrahim. With years of experience helping individuals with different skin concerns, she is sure to make you feel comfortable and heard during your consultation.
To book a consultation please CLICK HERE.