What is Genital Herpes?
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection.
It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Sexual contact is the primary way that the virus spreads.
After the initial infection, the virus lies dormant in your body and can reactivate several times a year. But you may have no signs or symptoms of genital herpes.
If infected, you can be contagious even if you have no visible sores.
There's no cure for genital herpes, but medications can ease symptoms and reduce the risk of infecting others. Condoms also can help prevent the spread of a genital herpes infection.
Most people infected with HSV don't know they have it because they don't have any signs or symptoms or because their signs and symptoms are so mild.
When present, symptoms may begin about two to 12 days after exposure to the virus.
Symptoms
- Pain or itching.
- Small red bumps or tiny white blisters.
- Ulcers.
- Scabs.
- During an initial outbreak, you may have flu-like signs and symptoms.
Complications
Complications associated with genital herpes may include:
- Other sexually transmitted infections.
- Newborn infection.
- Bladder problems.
- Meningitis.
- Rectal inflammation (proctitis).
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/genital-herpes/symptoms-
causes/syc-20356161
