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Herpes Simplex Genitalis Facts
Herpes genital infections are caused by the herpes simplex type 2 virus. It is the herpes simplex type 1 virus which causes cold sores. Genital herpes has become widely known and feared due to its inability to be cured, and recurrent nature. It is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Herpes is spread through partners ONLY during active manifestation of the disease (see below). The first attack is the worst where recurrences are often much milder. A significant number of people will not have a recurrence at all [although they still harbor the virus]. Herpes genitalis equally affects both sexes and all social groups. Symptoms occur approximately 6 days after exposure. Both sexes may experience low grade fever, headache, muscle aches, and tender, enlarged lymph nodes in the groin. Females will experience a mild tingling and burning preceding the appearance of PAINFUL skin sores. Soon after, a clear (chicken pox-like), blistery rash develops on the vaginal lining, labia, and skin around the anus. The blisters rupture, leaving painful red ulcers that eventually scab over. There is often a similar rash inside the vagina and around the cervix. The symptoms can last for a period of 1-3 weeks in duration, but the patient remains contagious for 2 weeks after the disappearance of the rash. Permanent scarring from the rash is extremely rare. Males will have a similar prodrome of tingling and burning.
The painful rash and blisters will then appear on the penis and, sometimes, on the testicles. Men will often have a penile discharge and pain with urination. Penile swelling is also common.When symptomatic, the virus lies dormant in the deep nerves of the groin. Around 50-75% of males and females will have a recurrence within 3 months. Later, the recurrences become less frequent and less severe. Different factors seem to contribute to recurrences: chronic illness, emotional stress, menstrual periods, trauma to the area, and pregnancy have all been implicated. Pregnant females, with active disease, will have their babies delivered by Cesarean section to avoid serious neurological complications (i.e. retardation and blindness) in the baby. Genital herpes in females is also thought to increase the risk of cervical cancer. Confirmation of the diagnosis is obtained by taking a scraping (painless) of a blister and subsequently incubating the virus in a culture [over several days] for the purpose of identification. Treatment is currently with an antiviral ointment (Zovirax), applied several times a day to the rash. Antiviral capsules (Zovirax) are also taken 5 times a day. Both of these medications have been shown to shorten the course of the illness and also lessen its severity. Early application of the ointment to the area (and oral medications), during the "tingling" stage [before blisters occur], can occasionally abort the attack. See your doctor for this prescription medication. These antiviral medications (pills and ointment) are NOT safe during pregnancy, or if you are currently breast feeding (an infant will receive the medication through the milk).
Hope this article will provide you information about herpes genitalis.
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