Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The two primary types of these viruses are type 1 and type 2, both of which circulate from the infected person to their healthy partner via close skin-to-skin contact, especially during sexual intercourse.

 Many people develop HSV-1 during their childhood in the form of cold sores which can lead to more complications as they get older. HSV1, i.e. herpes type 1 virus causes blisters in the mouth due to oral sex whereas the type 2 virus forms blisters and sores on the skin of the genitals or anus due to vaginal, anal, or oral sex with the sufferer. Since there is no cure for the virus to be eliminated from the body, it remains dormant in the patient's body for years with recurring episodes of sores and blisters that need managing with the help of medication. 

The herpes virus stays in the body, and in some cases does not cause any outbreaks or visible symptoms. A large proportion of people carry the herpes simplex virus, with no knowledge of its existence in their bodies due to no sores. Due to this absence of symptoms and its subsequent lack of treatment, it poses a risk to the healthy partner of contracting it during sexual intercourse. It enters the body via contact with the mouth and genitals and spreads through the infected bodily fluids such as saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions.

While in most cases the virus remains dormant in the body with no visible outbreak of its symptoms, there are cases where it starts to cause sores and painful blisters within 2 to 12 days in any region that has come into direct contact with it. Some of the prominent signs of genital herpes include:

• Fluid-filled itchy sores in the genital areas
• Tiny red and white bumps and blisters on the infected skin
• Painful urination
• Changing vaginal discharge

Since sores and blisters may not always mean a herpes infection, it is crucial to get yourself diagnosed before beginning any treatment for the symptoms. Schedule an appointment with the nearest sexual health clinic if you notice any visible signs of the virus. A swab test will help professionals check for the virus in your body.

Although the herpes virus cannot be cured entirely, medicines can help minimise the effects of its symptoms. The medications for genital herpes that you can order online with MedsNow include:

• Aciclovir 400mg tablets reduce the frequency of the outbreaks and heal the sores faster.
• Valtrex tablets relieve itching and pain while also preventing new sores from forming.

Protected and safe sex is the ideal prevention measure to avoid contracting any sexually transmitted infections. Using a condom will hopefully give you the best chance of protection. Abstain from sex and get medical attention immediately if you notice any signs of the outbreaks on yourself or your partner. Avoid sharing sex toys with anyone else to reduce the risk of transmission.

1. What does genital herpes look like?

   The infection looks like small sores or pimples filled with fluid. These blisters burst and form a yellowish crust as they heal.

2. How long does genital herpes last ?

   Genital herpes symptoms frequently disappear followed by reoccurring outbreaks. The first outbreak, which can last two to three weeks, is typically the worst for most people. Subsequent flare-ups frequently get better and last less time. Nonetheless, some people consistently shed the infection.

3. Is genital herpes curable?

   Herpes genitalis cannot be cured. There are, however, medications that can stop or lessen outbreaks. It is less likely that your sexual partner will contract the infection if you take daily anti-herpes medications.

4. Does genital herpes go away?

   The symptoms go away on their own, but the blisters may return (an outbreak or recurrence). A sexual health clinic's services can be beneficial.

5. Can cold sores cause genital herpes?

   Yes. By oral sex, the HSV-1-caused oral herpes virus can travel from the mouth to the genitals. Because of this, HSV-1 is responsible for some cases of genital herpes.

6. Can you get genital herpes from kissing?

   Herpes can be contracted through vaginal sex, oral sex, anal sex, and kissing, which all involve skin-to-skin contact with infected areas. Herpes produces flare-ups of recurring, itchy, and painful blisters or sores.

7. Can you get genital herpes from oral herpes?

   Yes. By oral sex, the HSV-1-caused oral herpes virus can travel from the mouth to the genitals. Because of this, HSV-1 is responsible for some cases of genital herpes.

8. Is genital herpes dangerous?

   When a person's immune system is compromised, such as when they have HIV infection, genital herpes can result in painful genital ulcers that can be severe and persistent. Moreover, HSV-1 and HSV-2 can both result in uncommon but dangerous side effects such aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the linings of the brain).

9. What triggers genital herpes?

   Although it is not clear what causes the virus outbreak from time to time, some factors have come to light. For instance menstruation, fatigue, stress and illness could trigger genital herpes flares.

10. Can you get genital herpes without being sexually active?

    No, since sexual transmission is the most eminent cause of the virus spread, you are not at risk if you are not sexually active.

11. How long is herpes contagious?

    It remains contagious even when the symptoms are not visible, or the virus is dormant in the body. So extra precautions are essential when trying to minimise the risks of transmission with this infection even if your partner's or your skin appears clear.

12. Can shaving cause herpes outbreak?

    The shaving part does not cause any triggers. The regrowth of hair after a shave can trigger the outbreak of the virus.

13. What are the chances of passing herpes without any effect on the skin?

    Carriers of HSV can still transmit the virus even if they have no visible signs and symptoms on the skin/genitals. Transmission is more probable when sores and blisters are present, but it remains possible even when the skin is clear.

14. Can you be immune to herpes?

    No, guaranteeing immunity to herpes is not possible. Current research shows that every sexually active individual is at risk of this common infection.

15. What organs are affected by herpes?

    Apart from the sex organs, herpes can also cause blisters on the tongue, mouth, eye, gums, lips, fingers and other parts of the body.

16. Is it safe to swim in a pool with someone who has herpes?

    Yes, since genital herpes spreads mainly due to sexual contact, it is unlikely that you will catch the virus while being in a pool with an infected person.

17. What happens if you pop herpes sores?

    Popping herpes sore or blister will firstly make them a lot more uncomfortable, but will also possibly risk the virus being spread more.

18. Do herpes outbreaks always occur in the same spot?

    While the general area of the outbreaks remains the same, it can spread to different patches in the same region. For instance, in the case of the mouth, your tongue, gums, etc., might be affected as well.

19. Does herpes make you tired?

    The first encounter with the virus might lead to flu-like symptoms or a high running fever leading to tiredness and fatigue.

20. Can herpes be transmitted to other parts of my body?

    Yes, if you touch the sores and directly touch other parts of the body, it can spread the virus to other parts of your body.

21. Can herpes live on towels?

    No, the virus cannot spread from an infected person to a healthy one via towels, toilets or other objects.

22. Do genital herpes and HIV have a link?

    An infection of genital herpes can raise your chances of getting infected with HIV since it affects the immune system drastically.