Genital Herpes – Diagnosis and Treatment
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection. The herpes simplex virus causes it and can affect both men and women.
This infection leads to sores and discomfort in the genital area. Learning about the symptoms and treatment options helps people manage the condition and reduce its spread.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers often look for visible sores and ask about your recent sexual history. They may take a sample from a sore to test for the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Lab tests can show if the infection is HSV-1 or HSV-2. Sometimes, a blood test is used when there are no open sores. Blood tests help detect antibodies, which may show if youโve had a herpes infection in the past, even without symptoms.
This test helps find evidence of the virus or a past infection. Providers often test for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like HIV, if you have herpes. These tests can guide overall sexual health care and prevent missed infections.
They may also suggest that your sexual partners get tested for STIs, even if they have no symptoms. Testing and early diagnosis are important, especially for people with multiple partners, new symptoms, or a partner known to have herpes.
Sometimes additional testing may be done if symptoms are severe, return often, or donโt respond well to treatment. In these cases, viral culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, or type-specific serologic testing may be used for a clearer diagnosis.
Treatment
Genital herpes has no cure, but treatments help control symptoms and outbreaks. Doctors prescribe antiviral medicines. These drugs can speed up the healing of sores and blisters. They also reduce itching, swelling, and burning during outbreaks.
Daily use can lower the number of future outbreaks. Antiviral medicines also reduce the chance of passing herpes to partners, even when there are no symptoms.
Doctors may treat the first episode, each new outbreak, or use daily suppressive therapy. The choice depends on your symptoms, how often outbreaks happen, and other health factors.
Using condoms helps prevent spreading the virus. Long-term antiviral use is safe.
Managing Emotions and Finding Support
Learning you have genital herpes can cause emotions like embarrassment or anger. You may worry about how partners will react.
Some helpful steps include:
- Open Communication: Talk honestly with partners to build trust and ease worries.
- Stay Informed: Learn about herpes, treatment options, and ways to prevent spreading it, especially if pregnancy or HIV infection is a concern.
- Support Groups: Join online or local groups to share experiences and get advice.
| When to get help | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| During pregnancy | Reduces risk of neonatal herpes |
| Concerns about complications | Helps manage lifelong infection |
| Planning delivery (cesarean or not) | Important for prenatal care decisions |
Getting Ready for Your Visit
When you plan to talk with a healthcare provider about possible genital herpes or another STI, being prepared makes the appointment more helpful. Write down any symptoms you have noticed before your visit.
Include when the symptoms started, how long they lasted, and if they come and go. Mention sores, unusual discharge, pain during urination, or pelvic pain.
Be honest about your sexual history. Providers may ask if you have had a new sexual partner or more than one partner.
Share whether you use condoms or other protection, as this helps them understand your risk. Tell your provider if you have ever had an STI before.
Bring a list of any medicines, vitamins, or supplements you use. This helps your provider avoid drug interactions and understand your health.
If you do not know the names or doses, bring the pill bottles or take photos to show during your appointment.
Checklist for your appointment:
| What to Bring or Know |
|---|
| List of symptoms and when they began |
| Any sores, discharge, or pain |
| Information on recent sexual partners |
| Condom or protection use |
| Previous STI diagnoses |
| Current medications or supplements |
Having these details ready helps your conversation with the healthcare provider. This allows them to give the best advice and recommend the right tests or treatments.
