Other STIs - Genital Herpes

Fact Sheet for Genital Herpes

What is genital herpes?

		Genital herpes is a lifelong sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is primarily responsible for what are commonly called "cold sores" or "fever blisters" found around the lips and mouth. Type 2 is mainly responsible for genital herpes, which can cause one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. Outbreaks of genital lesions can occur repeatedly over the course of the infection. In most situations, the outbreaks become less severe, less frequent, and are shorter, over time. Even though HSV type 2 is primarily responsible for genital herpes, recent studies have shown a significant increase in the prevalence of genital herpes caused by HSV type 1, thought to be due to the increased practice of oral sex.

How common is genital herpes?

		Genital herpes is very common in the United States. Nationwide, at least 50 million people ages 12 and older and one out of five adolescents and adults are infected with genital HSV. Women are more susceptible to infection, with an average of one out of four infected with genital herpes. The most recent national survey showed that, in the last decade, HSV prevalence in men and women 14-49 years of age for HSV type 2 is 17.0% and for HSV type 1, 57.7%.

How do you get genital herpes?

		The virus is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person by activities such as kissing and having sex including oral and anal sex. Up to 90% of infected individuals may not have any signs and minimal or atypical symptoms. These individuals can still shed the infectious virus and transmit the infection to their partner(s).

How can I tell if I have it?

		Sometimes there are small blisters (lesions) on the affected area and this is known as an "outbreak." However, many times there are no symptoms or signs. If symptoms and signs occur, they can be so nonspecific that it is difficult for doctors to diagnose HSV without further laboratory testing. Many women and men mistakenly attribute the symptoms of genital herpes to something else, such as yeast infection, allergy, irritation from sexual intercourse, and/or shaving. Lesions can heal but reoccurrences can appear several times a year.

How are genital HSV infections diagnosed?

		If you have lesions, your doctor can take a sample for viral culture. If you have no lesions, a blood sample can be tested for antibodies (a marker for the body's response to prior infection) to HSV.

Is there a cure for genital herpes?

		While there is no cure for genital herpes, safe and effective treatments using antiviral medications are available. These treatments can shorten and prevent outbreaks. Additionally, some treatments, known as daily suppressive therapy, can reduce transmission to susceptible partner(s).

What are the possible complications for genital herpes?

		Having genital herpes can make you more susceptible to infection with HIV. During a herpes outbreak, disruption of skin and mucosal layers in the genital area allow HIV easier access into the body. In addition, HIV-infected individuals with HSV can transmit HIV to sexual partners more easily. Another very serious, but rare, complication can occur among pregnant women. Getting infected with genital HSV for the first time during pregnancy greatly increases the risk of transmission of the virus to the baby. Neonatal herpes infections can be fatal infections in newborn babies. HSV can also spread to other parts of the body, causing infection of the brain and other internal organs, especially in individuals whose immune system is compromised (weakened).

How can genital herpes be prevented?

		Follow these guidelines: Abstain from sexual intercourse; or, Have sex with only one uninfected partner who only has sex with you; or Use a latex condom properly, every time you have sexual intercourse, with every partner; and, Limit your sexual partners. The more sex partners you have, the greater your risk of encountering someone who has HSV or other sexually transmitted infections. There is NO effective vaccine. Although condoms are not 100% effective, recent studies show that using a condom correctly and consistently can help protect you and your partner(s) from acquiring HSV and other sexually transmitted infections. If you are infected with any sexually transmitted disease, your sexual partner(s) should be evaluated.