Genital herpes is an infection. It causes small, painful, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters break open and leave an indented sore or ulcer. They can be found on:

• Genitals, buttocks, or thighs
• Other parts of the body (eg, mouth, face, or eyes)

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2. The virus enters the body through a break in the skin or through mucous membranes. After the first outbreak, the virus migrates to nerve endings at the base of the spine. It will remain there until the next outbreak.

The virus is spread through:

• Sexual contact, including intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex
• Fluid from herpes blisters that gets on other parts of the body
• An infected mother passing it on to her child during pregnancy or childbirth

The virus is most contagious when blisters are present. It is also contagious during the shedding stage. This is the stage before blisters or sores are visible. The virus may also spread when inactive between visible outbreaks.

The strongest risk factor is having unprotected sex with an infected partner.

Once herpes simplex is in the body, other factors can trigger the blisters to form. These can include:

• Fever
• Illness or infection
• Stress
• Weakened immune system
• Menstruation
• Long periods of exposure to sunlight

Often, the cause of an outbreak is unknown.

Symptoms depend on whether or not this is your first episode. The virus remains dormant between outbreaks. During this time, you may not have visible symptoms. You may still be shedding the virus. This means the virus can be spread during sex.

The number of outbreaks varies. Most people have an outbreak at least once per year.

This is when you are first exposed to the virus. You may not have any symptoms, or you may feel like you have the flu . This can include fever and muscle aches. The blisters may be in the genital area or other areas, like the mouth, lips, or tongue. The size and number of ulcers are usually larger during this first time. It takes about two weeks for the primary infection to resolve. If you get another infection it may take up to six weeks for the blisters to go away.

This happens when the virus reactivates in your body. How severe the virus is, how long it lasts, and how much is shed all vary. In most cases, these infections are shorter. They last about 3-7 days. They often have smaller and fewer ulcers. Symptoms are usually around the blister or ulcer area. Remember that you can still spread the virus even if you don't have any symptoms.

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The blisters and ulcers will be looked at. Lesions inside the urinary tract, vagina, or cervix may not be easily seen. To help with the diagnosis, your doctor may:

• Open a blister to take a sample of it
• Have blood tests done

Treatments to ease pain include:

• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Antiviral creams and ointments
• Cool cloths placed on blisters or sores
• Lukewarm baths
• Loose-fitting clothing

Treatments to speed healing include:

• Taking oral antiviral medications
• Keeping blisters or sores dry when not bathing

Treatments for bacterial infection of the blisters or sores include:

• Antibiotic medications