Genital Herpes
Both girls and guys can get genital herpes.
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two viruses that cause genital herpes:
- herpes simplex type 1 virus (HSV1)
- herpes simplex type 2 virus (HSV2).
HSV1 generally occurs in the upper half of the body, mainly around the lips and mouth appearing as a common 'cold sore'. HSV1 can be transferred to the genitals during oral sex.
HSV2 generally causes genital herpes and can be spread through skin and genital contact.
Both types are very common, with about one in five adults being infected with HSV2. But interestingly, HSV1 as the cause of genital herpes is becoming increasingly common in young people.
Watch an animated movie about genital herpes
Symptoms
Herpes blisters are usually irritating, painful and sore to touch. There may be redness around the blisters and the glands in the groin may become swollen and tender. After a couple of days, the blisters break and form shallow ulcers.
Many people with HSV infections do not have any obvious symptoms but can still pass the virus onto their sexual partners.
How do you get it?
Genital herpes is spread through unsafe sexual contact. You can get genital herpes through vaginal, anal or oral sex. The risk is highest during a herpes outbreak, as well as just before and a week after the outbreak. Herpes can be passed on even if your partner doesn’t have a visible ulcer or blister, which can make it hard to know if you’re at risk.
What’s the treatment?
There is no cure for genital herpes, so it is normal for people with HSV to get recurrent episodes of lesions or sores in their genital area. However, there is antiviral medication available that can relieve symptoms by making episodes less severe and less frequent.
What to do
For advice, see your local doctor, family planning clinic or sexual health clinic.
More info
- Read a detailed fact sheet about genital herpes
- Find out more about safe sex.