Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STD) that can be contracted by any sexually active person. A lot of individuals affected with the virus show no symptoms. Even without showing any symptoms or signs of illness, herpes can still be transmitted to sexual partners. Herpetic sores occur as a result of genital herpes and one of the features of herpetic sore is painful blisters (fluid-filled bumps) which can break and discharge fluid

Herpes viruses are of two types and they are responsible for the causes of genital herpes. The viruses are referred to as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

In some parts of the world such as the United States, genital herpes is common and it affects more than one in six people that lie between the ages of 14 and 49.

How is genital herpes transmitted?

You can contract genital herpes by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with a person suffering from it.

If you don’t suffer from herpes, you may become infected if you come into contact with the herpes virus in:

• A herpes sore;
• Saliva (if your partner has oral herpes infection) or genital secretion (if your partner has genital herpes infection);
• Skin in your mouth if your partner has oral herpes infection or skin in the genital area if your partner has a genital herpes infection.

It is possible for you to get herpes from a sexual partner that does not have a visible sore or those that does not know they have been infected with the virus. It is also possible to contract genital herpes if you have oral sex with a sexual partner suffering from oral herpes.

Getting infected with herpes from places such as the toilet seats, bedding or swimming pools, or touching of objects surrounding you, such as silverware, soap or towels is not common. In the event that you have any additional questions on how herpes spreads, meeting and discussing your doctor should be put into consideration.

How to reduce your chance of getting infected with genital herpes?

One of the best ways to avoid been infected with STDs is to avoid vaginal, anal or oral sex.

In the event that you are sexually active, you can do the following to reduce your chances of getting genital herpes:

• getting involved in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner that has not been infected with STD (for example, a partner who has been tested and has negative STD test results);
• Make use of latex condom properly each time you are having sex.

How to diagnose genital herpes

Conducting a visual examination of the herpes sore by your doctor is the ways to diagnose herpes. Although not always necessary, your doctor can confirm the diagnosis by laboratory tests.

Performing a blood test in the laboratory can be used to diagnose herpes simplex virus before you encounter an epidemic. Check with your doctor if you think you have been exposed to genital herpes, even if you have no symptoms.

How to treat genital herpes?

Treatment can reduce the epidemic but cannot cure you of the herpes simplex virus.

Medications

Antiviral drugs can help you quickly cure wounds and reduce pain. You can take medications at the first sign of an epidemic (tingling, itching and other symptoms) in order to reduce the symptoms. People who experience epidemics may also be prescribed drugs to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks.

Home care

In order to treat herpes using homegrown methods, make use of a mild cleaning agent when bathing or showering in warm water. Keep the infected area clean and dry. Wear removed cotton clothing to make the area comfortable.

Herpes may not be dangerous like HIV, but it will still make you uncomfortable and it will affect your life seriously. You may not be able to avoid it 100% but you may try your best to lower the risk with just a little effort.