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Genital Herpes
Medical Questions » Genital Herpes
| Name: Genital Herpes |
| Also known as: Herpes Simplex Type 2 Infection |
| Contagious viral infection of the genitals. |
Causes of Genital Herpes
The Herpes simplex type 2 virus is caught by sexual contact with someone who already has the disease. It is possible, but unlikely, for the virus to be caught in hot spa baths and from a shared wet towel. If sores are present, there is a good chance of passing the disease on, but a patient is also infectious for several days before a new crop of sores develop. Condoms give limited protection against spreading the disease. |
Symptoms of Genital Herpes
Once a person is infected with the virus, it settles in the nerve endings around the vulva or penis, and remains there for the rest of that person' s life. With stress, illness or reduced resistance, the virus starts reproducing and causes painful blisters and ulcers on the penis or scrotum (sac) in the male; and on the vulva (vaginal lips), and in the vagina and cervix (opening into the womb) of the female. The first attack may occur only a week, or up to some years, after the initial infection. An attack will last for two to four weeks and then subside. After weeks, months or years, a further attack may occur. Women are affected more severely and frequently than men. |
Tests for Genital Herpes
Diagnosed by taking a swab from the ulcer or a blood test. |
Treatment for Genital Herpes
Antiviral tablets and ointments will control an attack, and can be taken for months or years to prevent further attacks.
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Complications of Genital Herpes of its treatment
If a baby catches the infection from the mother during delivery, it can cause severe brain damage in the child. For this reason, if a woman has a history of repeated herpes infections, she may be delivered by caesarean section. The incidence of gynecological cancer is increased and in rare cases it can cause encephalitis (brain infection). |
Likely Outcome of Genital Herpes
Good control with modern medications. |
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