men & women
Genital Herpes (HSV)
Genital herpes is a common viral infection causing recurring painful blisters or ulcers, manageable with antiviral tablets although not curable.
Symptoms
1
Clusters of small painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals, buttocks or anus
2
Tingling, itching or burning before blisters appear
3
Flu-like symptoms with the first episode
4
Pain when urinating during an outbreak
5
Later episodes are usually shorter and milder than the first
Causes and how it spreads
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 or HSV-2, and spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex. It can be passed on even when no blisters are visible, because the virus sheds from the skin intermittently. Cold sores on the mouth can cause genital herpes through oral sex.
How PVT tests for it
The most reliable test is a PCR swab taken from a fresh lesion, processed by an accredited pathology laboratory. If you have symptoms now, come in while they are present, since a healed episode is much harder to confirm. Your doctor will explain what blood antibody tests can and cannot tell you.
Treatment
Antiviral tablets shorten and soothe episodes when started early, and daily suppressive treatment reduces both recurrences and the chance of passing the virus on. There is no cure, but herpes is very manageable: for most people episodes become infrequent and brief over time.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor with any painful genital blisters or ulcers, ideally while they are visible so a swab can confirm the diagnosis. Also come in if a partner has herpes and you want to understand your risk and options, including suppressive treatment.
Related service
Sexual Health Screening
Sexual health screening at PVT is confidential doctor-led testing for sexually transmitted infections, for men and women, with results and treatment handled privately.
Questions about
Genital Herpes (HSV)
Is herpes curable?
No, the virus stays in the body, but that headline is less alarming than it sounds. Antiviral tablets treat episodes effectively, daily suppression can largely prevent them, and most people find outbreaks become milder and rarer with time.
How common is genital herpes?
Very. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that several hundred million people aged 15 to 49 live with genital herpes. Most do not know, because many infections cause minimal or unrecognised symptoms.
Can I pass herpes on when I have no blisters?
Yes, through what is called asymptomatic shedding, although the risk is highest during an outbreak. Daily suppressive antiviral treatment and condoms both reduce transmission substantially. Your doctor can help you and your partner work out a sensible approach.
Does herpes affect pregnancy?
It can, mainly when a first-ever infection happens late in pregnancy. Women with known herpes are managed with suppressive treatment near delivery. If you are pregnant or planning to be, mention herpes to your doctor so the plan is in place early.