Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes
Genital Herpes is a very common condition caused by the herpes simplex
virus also known as the cold sore virus (HSV 1&2). The highest incidence is
in people aged 20-24 years.
How is Genital Herpes passed on
Genital Herpes is passed on through:
• Unprotected vaginal, anal and oral sex
• Sharing sex toys if you don’t wash them or cover them with a new
condom each time they are used
• Close skin-to-skin contact
• From mother to baby during childbirth
Symptoms
Many people are unaware that they have the herpes simplex virus because most
have either no symptoms or only minor symptoms, such as a recurring redness or
a crack in the skin of the genital area.
First outbreak
The first outbreak can show up many years after infection with the virus and does
not necessarily mean you acquired it recently.
Some of these symptoms can last up to 20 days and are very contagious:
• Painful fluid-filled blisters around the genitals and anus, buttocks and top
of the thighs
• Blisters and ulcers on the cervix
• Vaginal discharge in women
• Flu-like symptoms with aches and pains
• Stinging or itching in the genitals or anus
• Pain when urinating

Recurrent outbreaks
Recurrent outbreaks tend to be milder, less frequent and clear up more quickly
because the body has formed protective antibodies to fight the infection.
Outbreaks are often brought on by ultra violet light, stress, a low immune system,
friction in the genital area, being ill or surgery on the genital area.
Getting tested
A diagnosis is made by looking at the affected areas and taking a swab from one
of the blisters.
Where to get tested
Sexual Health Clinics
• Manchester Centre for Sexual Health - 0161 276 5200
• North Manchester General - 0161 918 4263
• Withington Community Hospital - 0161 217 4939
Young People
• Brook (under 19s) - 0161 237 3001
Lesbian, gay and bisexual
• Lesbian and Gay Foundation (LGF) – 0845 3 30 30 30
Treatment
With the first outbreak it is beneficial to have a short course of antiviral tablets
for five days, which helps your body manage the new virus and may mean it is
less likely to recur. Some people, mainly with type 2 herpes, get monthly or twomonthly
recurrences, which can be treated with tablets to suppress the virus. If you
are pregnant, talk to your doctor or midwife about herpes:- even if you are not
known to have herpes, it may be beneficial to have treatment.

Prevention
If you have been diagnosed with herpes:
• Avoid sexual contact until all the symptoms (blisters or ulcers) have
cleared up
• After your symptoms have gone, use a condom for vaginal, anal or oral
sex and when using sex toys. However, if the virus is still present around
the genital or anal area, there is still a possibility that the virus can be
passed on.
• Avoid kissing your partner or engaging in oral sex if either of you has a
cold sore around your mouth.
To protect yourself and partners against genital herpes:
• Use a condom for vaginal, anal and oral sex
• Use a dental dam or latex barrier for oral sex with a woman
• If you share sex toys, use a new condom or wash them before anyone
else uses them

For more information about sexually transmitted infections go to: www.nhs.uk
This fact sheet has been produced by the Sexual Health and Harm Reduction Team.
© Manchester Mental Health and Social Care Trust. September 2013.