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Genital herpes, also known as genital herpes, is a viral infection that can affect both men and women. This is a problem that can be not only painful, but also embarrassing. In this article, we will discuss what causes genital herpes, how it can be infected, what its symptoms are, whether it can recur, how a doctor makes a diagnosis, how it is treated, what danger it poses to pregnant women and how you can protect yourself against infection.
Genital herpes – what causes it?
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, more specifically HSV-2. This virus is very contagious and is mainly transmitted sexually. Genital herpes can also be caused by HSV-1, which is more commonly known as the herpes labialis virus, but can also affect the genitals.
Genital herpes – how can it be infected?
The most common way to get genital herpes is through sexual contact with someone who has the HSV-2 virus. Skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even without penetration, can lead to infection. The virus is very contagious, even if there are no visible symptoms.
How does genital herpes manifest itself?
The symptoms of genital herpes may vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are the appearance of small blisters or sores in the genital area, itching, burning, pain during urination, and swelling around the genital area. Sometimes they are accompanied by general flu-like symptoms, such as fever and feeling unwell.
Can genital herpes recur?
Yes, genital herpes can recur. After the first infection with HSV-2, the virus remains in the body for life. Relapse periods may be caused by stress, a weakened immune system, women’s menstrual periods, or other factors. Relapses may be more or less painful, but they always carry the risk of infecting other people.
Genital herpes – how does a doctor diagnose?
The diagnosis of genital herpes is usually made by a doctor based on a physical examination and laboratory test results. Your doctor may take a tissue sample from the ulcers or vesicles and perform PCR or serology tests to detect the presence of the herpes simplex virus.
Genital herpes – how is it treated?
Treatment of genital herpes involves alleviating symptoms and shortening the duration of relapses. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to help control the infection. In addition, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, avoid sexual contact during relapses and use condoms, which can reduce the risk of infecting your partner.
Genital herpes – a threat to pregnant women
For pregnant women, genital herpes may pose an additional risk. If a woman is infected with HSV-2 during pregnancy, there is a risk of transmitting the virus to her baby during delivery, which can lead to serious complications. Therefore, it is important for a pregnant woman to consult a doctor regularly and take recommended precautions.
Genital herpes – can you protect yourself against infection?
While there is no 100% effective way to avoid genital herpes infection, there are precautions you can take to reduce your risk of infection. Using condoms during sexual intercourse can help protect against the virus. Additionally, avoiding sexual contact with people who have active symptoms of genital herpes is recommended.
Your suggestions
If you have any questions about genital herpes or would like more information about it, please consult your doctor or sexual health specialist. Please feel free to seek help and information to better understand this infection and how to manage it.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in the topic of genital health, we also recommend reading articles about other sexually transmitted infections and precautions you can take to maintain a healthy sex life.
This article aims to provide information about genital herpes and help readers understand this infection, its causes, symptoms and treatment. Remember that the most important thing is to maintain a healthy sexual lifestyle and consult a doctor regularly for prevention and diagnosis.