Sexually transmitted infections (STI) like genital herpes are widespread. Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Sexual contact is a common risk factor for the transmission of genital herpes. Virus infections may vary greatly from person to person. They may still be able to infect others with the virus. Herpes may be one of two kinds:
- HSV-1: Oral herpes (cold sores) are blisters that may appear anywhere on the body but are most typically seen around the mouth.
- HSV-2: This is linked to the development of blistering lesions in genital regions uncovered due to sexual interaction.
How common is genital herpes in women?
Genital herpes in women is more common as compared to those in men. Genital herpes affects around one in five women between the ages of 14 and 49 but only one in ten males in the same age range. Genital herpes is more common in women than in males because of differences in their anatomy. Microscopic vaginal tears may facilitate genital herpes transmission.
Causes of genital herpes
The following are some genital herpes causes:
- HSV type 1 (HSV-1)
- HSV type 2 (HSV-2)
- Sexual activity, including oral, vaginal, or anal contact with the genital
- Engaging in sexual activity with more than one partner
- Being in a relationship with someone with the illness but not seeking treatment
Genital herpes symptoms
Genital herpes symptoms often begin with a tingling, stinging, or burning sensation, followed by sores in genital areas. Usually, between 2 and 20 days after infection, symptoms manifest. The sores often appear on the anus, vagina, buttocks, and penis; however, they may appear elsewhere on the body. Urinary discomfort and alterations in vaginal discharge are two more symptoms of herpes.
When someone gets these sores for the first time, they could stay around for two to six weeks before going away. The symptoms may continue to appear often, not long after the first epidemic. When some time has passed, the frequency of breakouts and the severity of the symptoms may decrease with the help of genital herpes medication.
First signs of an episode
These are the initial genital herpes women symptoms that an infected individual may experience. Herpes may produce more than just blisters and sores.
- Itchiness and discomfort
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fever
- Weariness and an overall sense of illness
- The lesions often heal completely without leaving any permanent scars.
Recurring symptoms
Recurring symptoms are usually quite close to the original ones. Nonetheless, their intensity and duration are often lower. According to studies, around fifty percent of those with genital herpes will suffer recurrences.
A recurrence of genital herpes similarly causes symptoms to continue for eight to ten days, although there will be fewer sores than during the first episode. Recurrences of genital herpes may make a person contagious for another 2-5 days. Therefore, to know what causes genital herpes to recur, contact your medical professional.
Treatment options available
There is currently no treatment available for herpes. Nevertheless, while taking the medication, antiviral drugs may halt the spread of the virus or at least lessen its severity. Suppressive treatment (such as antiviral medication used daily) for genital herpes cure may also reduce transmission to a partner.
Your medical professional may recommend an antiviral medication for you to take immediately upon experiencing outbreak signs or regularly to help prevent outbreaks. You should discuss potential genital herpes treatment with your medical professional.
During an outbreak, you may enhance your recovery by using any one of the following measures, which will also help avoid the expansion of herpes to other body parts or other individuals:
- Maintain a sanitary and dry environment around sores.
- Keep your hands off the sores.
- Always remember to wash your hands after coming into touch with the sores.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for herpes at this time. However, there are treatments available to help alleviate the discomfort. There is a possibility that females infected with herpes would not suffer any signs of the illness; nonetheless, even in this scenario, the virus can still transmit to other people. It is suggested that pregnant women with herpes consult a medical professional at USPs immediately to help reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their unborn child and get medicine for genital herpes.
FAQs
1. How do you treat genital herpes in women?
Genital herpes cannot be cured, but it may be controlled. During an epidemic, your medical professional might recommend an antiviral drug such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir. Over-the-counter pain relievers available might also help.
2. Can a woman be cured of herpes?
Genital herpes cannot be cured at this time. Nonetheless, regular use of antiviral medications may prevent or lessen the severity of outbreaks.
3. What are the signs of herpes in a woman?
The first, or main, outbreak of herpes may cause flu-like symptoms. A headache, fever, and general body soreness are all examples. Periodic recurrence of blisters and other symptoms is common among those infected with herpes. In addition, infections tend to occur less often as time goes on.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.