Genital herpes: A Sexually Transmitted Disease
Genital herpes is the viral infection which causes blisters, ulcers or open sores in and around the genitals. Both men and women are equally susceptible to genital herpes. This disease is caused by a virus called herpes simplex and is highly contagious.
It easily spreads through sexual activity, through saliva or through direct or indirect contact with the infected area.
The symptoms
Many individuals don’t recognize the symptoms of genital herpes and can unknowingly spread the disease. The symptoms of genital herpes can differ from person to person but most of the time it is recognized by a tingling sensation or open sores around the genitals.
The sores in the beginning appear as small, reddish bumps which are filled with some fluid. Later on, they turn itchy and painful. Other symptoms are flushes with or without pain, cracks around the groin, headache, fever, vaginal discharge and painful urination.
Treatment and precautions
There is no complete cure of genital herpes but the outbreaks can be treated. Anti viral medications do not work too well in this problem. There are certain oral medications which can slow down the growth of the virus and the blisters only to the extent that they can limit the infection and its transmission.
Since, this disease spreads through sexual intercourse, it is always better to use a condom. Avoid switching to multiple partners. Another preventive measure is vaccination.
Though the vaccine can reduce the number of people getting affected by this disease, but it doesn’t work on people who already have the infection. If you find the symptoms of genital herpes in you, do not shy away or feel embarrassed to ask for help.
Get to the doctor, as soon as possible, to prevent further complications. Genital herpes if left unattended, can lead to severe problems like reproductive organ failure. Pregnant women with genital herpes can have severe complications during delivery.
It’s important that they tell their doctors about it. Personal hygiene is very important in people infected with genital herpes. Do not touch your eyes or mouth after touching the blisters.
A proper hand wash, is a must after touching the blisters. It is advisable not to share clothes which have come in contact with the blisters. Avoid sexual activities, even oral sex, completely during the outbreaks.
