Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is a very common STI, affecting around 1 in 6 people in the United States.
While there is no cure for genital herpes, it is possible to manage outbreaks and reduce their frequency and severity.
What Are the Symptoms of Genital Herpes?
The symptoms of genital herpes can vary from person to person. Some people may not have any symptoms at all, while others may experience:.
- itching or burning in the genital area
- pain or discomfort during urination
- small, red bumps or white blisters in or around the genitals, anus, or mouth
- flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and swollen glands
How Is Genital Herpes Diagnosed?
If you think you may have genital herpes, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination and may also perform one or more of the following tests:.
- blood test to check for HSV antibodies
- culture test, which involves taking a swab of a sore or blister and testing it for the virus
- polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which uses a sample of fluid from a sore or blister to detect the virus
How Is Genital Herpes Treated?
While there is no cure for genital herpes, antiviral medications can help to manage outbreaks, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and lessen the severity of symptoms. Commonly prescribed antiviral medications for genital herpes include:.
- acyclovir (Zovirax)
- valacyclovir (Valtrex)
- famciclovir (Famvir)
Managing Genital Herpes Outbreaks
Take Your Medication
If you have been diagnosed with genital herpes, it’s important to take your medication exactly as prescribed. This will help to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medication to be taken daily or only during outbreaks.
Avoid Triggers
Many people with genital herpes find that certain things can trigger outbreaks. These triggers can vary from person to person, but some common triggers include:.
- stress
- illness or a weakened immune system
- fatigue
- sun exposure
- menstruation
- sexual activity
Avoiding these triggers can help to reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
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Ways to ease genital herpes symptoms
Practice Safe Sex
Using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity can help to reduce the risk of transmitting genital herpes to your partner.
However, it’s important to note that these methods are not foolproof, as the virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact as well.
Keep the Area Clean and Dry
Keeping the genital area clean and dry can help to prevent outbreaks and reduce the severity of symptoms. When an outbreak does occur, try to keep the area clean and avoid tight-fitting clothing that may irritate the skin.
Loose-fitting cotton clothing can help to keep the area dry and comfortable.
Manage Stress
Stress can be a trigger for genital herpes outbreaks, so finding ways to manage stress can be helpful. Some ways to manage stress include:.
- exercise
- meditation
- yoga
- deep breathing
- getting enough sleep
Seek Support
Living with genital herpes can be difficult, and it’s normal to feel anxious, stressed, or depressed at times.
Seeking support from a therapist or support group can be helpful in managing these feelings and learning how to live with genital herpes.
Conclusion
While there is no cure for genital herpes, it is possible to manage outbreaks and reduce their frequency and severity.
Taking antiviral medication as prescribed, avoiding triggers, practicing safe sex, keeping the area clean and dry, managing stress, and seeking support can all be helpful strategies for managing genital herpes outbreaks.
