genital herpes

• Caused by Herpes complex virus 

  • Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV1) - ‘cold sores’ on lips, can affect genitals 
  • Herpes simplex type 2 (HSV2) - blisters on genital 

  Both transmitted by skin-to-skin contact
• First episode is usually most severe 

  • Blisters develop in penis, labia, vagina 
  • Flu-like symptoms 
  • Rash 
• Blisters break → ulcers → scabs 

  • Healing occurs over 1 or 2 weeks 
• Some virus passes into nervous system 

  • Remains for life
  • Can reinfect skin / mucous membranes of genital organs any time 
  • Blisters recur for rest of life - usually less painful and shorter 
• Can be passed to baby during birth 

  • Malformations and disease may occur - uncommon 
• No way of removing once infected 

  Treatment 

  • Medication - reduce pain
  • Saline dressing - clean up blisters
  • Sexual abstinence during eruption 
  • Antiviral drug specific to herpes - reduce severity and length of attack