01/10/2023
Ge***al herpes is a s*xually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can cause sores on your ge***al or re**al area, buttocks, and thighs. You can get it from having va**nal, a**l, or oral s*x with someone who has it. The virus can spread even when sores are not present. Mothers can also infect their babies during childbirth.
Symptoms of herpes are called outbreaks. You usually get sores near the area where the virus has entered the body. The sores are blisters which break and become painful, and then heal. Sometimes people do not know they have herpes because they have no symptoms or very mild symptoms. The virus can be more serious in newborn babies or in people with weak immune systems.
Repeat outbreaks are common, especially during the first year. Over time, you get them less often and the symptoms become milder. The virus stays in your body for life.
There are tests that can diagnose ge***al herpes. There is no cure. However, medicines can help lessen symptoms, decrease outbreaks, and lower the risk of passing the virus to others. Correct usage of latex condoms can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading herpes.
Ge***al herpes affects the skin or mucous membranes of the ge***als. The virus is spread from one person to another during s*xual contact.
There are 2 types of herpes simplex virus (HSV):
HSV-1 most often affects the mouth and lips and causes cold sores or fever blisters. But it can spread from the mouth to the ge***als during oral s*x.
HSV type 2 (HSV-2) most often causes ge***al herpes. It can be spread through skin contact or through fluids from the mouth or ge***als.
You may become infected with herpes if your skin, va**na, p***s, or mouth comes into contact with someone who already has herpes.
You are most likely to get herpes if you touch the skin of someone who has herpes sores, blisters, or a rash. But the virus can still be spread, even when no sores or other symptoms are present.
