Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes is a chronic condition recurring four to five times in the first two years of being infected. For 80% of the time the disease can remain dormant causing you not to know that you are infected until there becomes an outbreak.
 
Genital Herpes are highly contagious and can be easily passed on by direct close contract. Transmission can occur through vaginal, anal and oral sex with an infected person.
 
Male and Female symptoms:
  • Painful red blisters that soon burst and leave ulcers. In time they dry out and heal.                           
  • Vaginal discharge for women
  • Pain when passing urine
  • Fever and a general feeling of being unwell
If you have been told you have Genital Herpes you may be offered medication to reduce the symptoms of the infection, although these are only effective within 72 hours of the start of the symptoms.
 
To find out more go to the FPA website – www.fpa.org.uk

Getting tested

If you feel you have Genital Herpes you should visit your local GUM clinic or a GP. A clinical examination of the area will be required and a swab will be taken from any visible sores. For more information about where to get tested follow this link.