Genital Herpes

Caused by a virus, currently there is no cure, however, there are treatments for serious outbreaks.

Transferred from one person to another by skin touching skin.

Same family of viruses as cold sores but different strain. Genital Herpes cannot be transmitted to the mouth, but cold sores can be transmitted to the genitals.

Symptoms include:

• Itchy or tingling around the genitals or anus.
• Blisters develop, burst and leave painful ulcers.
• Pain when you pee over the ulcers.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• First outbreak is always the worst but treatment is available.
• Bathing in warm, salt water, (no bubble bath) may help ease pain.

Passed on through vaginal, anal and oral sex. (Going down on your partner if you have a cold sore WILL give them Genital Herpes, kissing will only transmit cold sores.)

Test involves a swab taken of the ulcer. (See Sexual Health Services.)

No serious long-term complications.

Unfortunately, condoms will not always prevent this virus being transmitted, but will prevent other, more serious viruses such as, HIV.