Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, usually, HSV-2. 1 in 5 Americans 12 and older has genital herpes.

Symptoms:

As with all STIs, symptoms may not be present, but you or your partner may still be infected and infecting others.

• One or more blisters on or around the genital area or rectum.
• The blisters then break leaving ulcers or sores that take two to four weeks to heal.
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever and swollen glands

How it is Spread:

Through vaginal, anal or oral sex.

Herpes can be spread through the sores that the viruses cause, or by contact with skin that does not appear to be broken or to have a sore.

HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but it more commonly causes infections of the mouth and lips, so-called "fever blisters." HSV-1 infection of the genitals can be caused by oral-genital or genital-genital contact with a person who has HSV-1 infection.

Side Effects:

• Reoccurring and painful sores
• Makes the carrier more susceptible to the HIV infection and may make the strain already acquired more infectious.
• Causes potentially fatal infections in babies as it is transmitted by birth. Infected women should talk to their doctor about a cesarean.

Treatment:

There is no cure for herpes. Anti-virals may treat the symptoms, but people who have one painful, skin outbreak almost always have other outbreaks.

How to Avoid:

Abstinence until a single, life-long, committed, and monogamous relationship is the only sure way to avoid being infected. If you are married, stay faithful. If you are sexually active, stop and get tested.

Sources:
Center of Disease Control and Prevention
The Medical Institute

Other Diseases

STDs & STIs Overview
HPV
Gonorrhea
Chlamydia
Genital Herpes
Trichomoniasis
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
HIV/AIDS

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• Sense of betrayal and abandonment
• Guilt, depression and emotional roller coaster
• Impaired ability to form healthy long-term relationships