Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
- Genital herpes is the most common cause of genital ulcers.
- Genital herpes can recur, but it can be prevented with prophylactic medication.
- Approximately 20 percent of the Finnish population are infected with HSV-2, but only a small percentage of them have symptoms.
- HSV-1, which is more often associated with oral herpes, can also cause symptoms in the genital area.
In most cases, the symptoms of genital herpes appear 4–14 days after infection. Initial symptoms include burning and itching sensations, after which blisters may develop in the genital area. The blisters develop into ulcers and later on into scabs.
The first inflammation related to herpes generally includes a more serious range of symptoms, and it is associated with urinary problems. General symptoms include fever, headache and muscle pain. The symptoms will subside in 2–3 weeks. The first herpes infection can also be asymptomatic.
Antiviral medications can be used to alleviate the symptoms of herpes and to decrease their duration and the risk of spreading the infection. If the symptoms are mild, the use of antiviral medications is not recommended. If the symptoms cause problems, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a doctor. Infections associated with general symptoms and urinary problems can be treated at a hospital.
Recurrent herpes can be treated with a prophylactic medication.
The expert for this article was Veli-Jukka Anttila, a specialist in infectious diseases and internal medicine.
Herpes symptoms occur approximately 4–14 days after the infection. The first symptoms of herpes are burning and itching, after which blisters will appear in the genital area. The blisters develop into ulcers and later on into scabs.
The first herpes infection may be asymptomatic or its symptoms may be more severe. It may be associated with urinary problems and general symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle pain. The symptoms will subside in 2–3 weeks.
Genital herpes is caused by the HSV-2 virus (herpes simplex virus), while oral herpes is caused by the HSV-1 virus. The virus that causes oral herpes can also cause symptoms in the genital area.
Genital herpes usually manifests as blisters on the skin of the genital area.
Antiviral medications can be used to alleviate the symptoms of herpes and to decrease their duration and the risk of spreading the infection. If the symptoms are mild, the use of antiviral medications is not recommended. In the case of severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a doctor. Infections associated with general symptoms and urinary problems can be treated at a hospital. Prophylactic medication is an option only in the treatment of recurring herpes.
If you think you might have a genital herpes infection or another sexually transmitted disease, you can book an appointment with a dermatologist to determine whether there is an infection.
You can book an appointment with our dermatologists through our online appointment booking service or by calling +358 (0)10 414 00.
