Genital Herpes

What Is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is a long-term viral infection that affects the skin and mucous membranes in the genital or anal area. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most often HSV-2, although HSV-1, which is commonly linked to oral herpes, can also cause genital infections.

Genital herpes is very common. Many people who have it don’t realize it because symptoms can be mild, mistaken for other skin conditions or completely absent. Even without visible sores, the virus can still be passed to others through skin-to-skin contact.

Although genital herpes is a lifelong condition, most people are able to manage it successfully with medication and healthy habits, allowing them to live full, active lives.

What Causes Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes results from a herpes simplex virus infection that affects the genital region.

Types of Herpes Simplex Virus

• HSV-1: Often causes cold sores around the mouth but can spread to the genitals through oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2: The most common cause of genital herpes and is primarily spread through sexual contact.
  
  

How Genital Herpes Spreads

The virus spreads through close skin contact with areas affected by the infection, including:

• Vaginal, anal or oral sex
• Contact with herpes sores, blisters or open skin
• Contact with infected skin even when no sores are visible (called asymptomatic shedding)
  
  

Genital herpes is not spread through toilet seats, towels, bedding or casual contact like hugging.

Signs and Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Symptoms of genital herpes vary widely. Some people have noticeable outbreaks, while others never develop symptoms.

Common symptoms may include:

• Small blisters or sores on or around the genitals, anus or thighs
• Tingling, itching or burning before sores appear
• Painful open sores that crust over and heal
• Pain or burning during urination
• Flu-like symptoms during a first outbreak, such as fever, headache or swollen lymph nodes
  
  

The first outbreak is often the most uncomfortable. Later outbreaks tend to be milder and shorter, and some people stop having outbreaks over time.

How Is Genital Herpes Diagnosed?

A health care provider can diagnose genital herpes based on symptoms, medical history and testing.

Diagnostic Methods May Include:

• Physical exam: Visual examination of sores or blisters
• Swab test: A sample taken from an open sore to detect HSV
• Blood test: Used to look for herpes antibodies, especially when no sores are present
  
  

Testing is important because herpes symptoms can look like other conditions, and many people carry the virus without knowing it.

How Is Genital Herpes Treated?

There is no cure for genital herpes, but treatment can help control the infection and improve quality of life.

Antiviral Medications

Prescription antiviral medications can:

• Shorten the length of outbreaks
• Reduce pain and discomfort
• Lower how often outbreaks occur
• Decrease the risk of spreading herpes to a partner
  
  

Some people take antiviral medication only during outbreaks, while others take daily suppressive therapy.

At-Home Care

During an outbreak, you can help relieve symptoms by:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Wearing loose, breathable clothing
• Avoiding sexual contact until sores are fully healed
• Managing stress, which can trigger outbreaks
  
  

Talk with your health care provider to determine the treatment plan that’s right for you.

How to Reduce the Risk of Genital Herpes

While genital herpes cannot always be prevented, certain steps can lower your risk of infection or transmission.

Helpful prevention strategies include:

• Using condoms consistently, which reduces but does not eliminate risk
• Avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks
• Taking daily antiviral medication if recommended
• Having open conversations with sexual partners about STI testing
• Getting tested regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners
  
  

Education and awareness play a major role in prevention and early management.

When to Seek Care for Genital Herpes

A genital herpes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. With proper medical care, support and accurate information, most people manage the condition successfully.

If you have concerns about symptoms, testing or treatment options, a health care provider can help guide you through next steps and connect you with the care you need.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368