A sexually transmitted infection caused by 1 form of the herpes simplex virus, known as HSV2. After an incubation period of about a week, the virus produces soreness, burning, itching, and small blisters in the genital area. The blisters burst to leave small, painful ulcers, which heal in 10–21 days. The lymph nodes in the groin may become enlarged and painful, and the person may develop headache and fever. Genital herpes cannot be cured, but treatment can reduce the severity of symptoms. Antiviral drugs such as aciclovir make the ulcers less painful and also encourage healing. Other measures include taking analgesic drugs and bathing with a salt solution. Once the virus enters the body, it stays there for the rest of the person’s life. Recurrent attacks may occur, usually during periods when the person is feeling run down, anxious, or depressed, before menstruation, or after sexual intercourse. The virus can be spread to others through sexual intercourse even when symptoms are absent. Recurrent attacks tend to become less frequent and less severe over time. Genital herpes may be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby during delivery. If the virus can be detected in vaginal swabs, delivery by caesarean section is usually recommended.
Herpes, genital |
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