What is it? Genital Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) which is from the same family of viruses that cause cold sores. Cold sores are generally caused by a type HSV-1, and
genital herpes is usually caused by type HSV-2. Often people will have recurring outbreaks. During these outbreaks the infected person will have sores and symptoms for a while, then the virus will go into a dormant stage and the person will have no symptoms again until the next outbreak.
Genital Herpes is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, typically during oral, anal or vaginal sex. In rare cases, a herpes infection can be spread from mother to child during birth.
Genital Herpes major Symptoms for both men and women include:
- Itchiness of genitals Small blisters in the vagina or on the vulva or cervix; on or around the penis or testicles; on or around the anus; or on the thighs or buttocks The first episode may be accompanied by fever or headaches.
- Genital Herpes Blisters often burst leaving painful sores.
- Painful urination A slight tingling or burning may be a sign that an active outbreak is coming Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 20 days of infection.