Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that commonly occurs due to simplex virus (HSV). It is a lifelong condition that can raise the chance of recurring outbreaks of painful sores and blisters down there. With increasing number of genital herpes cases in India, doctors warn that prevention is the cure as the condition is though treated can have repeated outbreaks. Dr. Manisha Tomar, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Noida says that the cause of genital herpes is the simplex virus.
"HSV-1 is linked to cold sores around the mouth but can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact. HSV-2 causes genital herpes and is known to spread via sexual contact. The virus can also get transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex," explains Dr. Tomar.
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
Some of the primary symptoms are:
- Painful blisters or sores in the genital or anal area.
- Itching or burning sensation around the affected area.
- Flu-like symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches.
- Tingling or shooting pain in the legs or buttocks.
Dr. Tomar suggests to initiate the treatment "without any delay."
For the diagnisis, the expert will perform a physical exam to monitor the symptoms. "Examining the sores and then suggest prompt treatment. Then the swab will be collected from a sore to test for HSV. Other blood tests will help to detect antibodies to determine past exposure to the virus. Don’t delay the treatment once you are diagnosed with genital herpes," advises the Gynecologist.