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What is genital herpes?
- Cause
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV-2 or HSV-1)
- Curable?
- No, but very manageable
- Treatment
- Antiviral medicine
- Spreads
- Even without visible sores
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus: HSV-2, or HSV-1, the virus behind most cold sores, which can spread to the genitals through oral sex. Once you have it, the virus stays in the body and can reactivate from time to time.
It spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including when no sores are visible. Many people with herpes have mild symptoms or none, and don't know they have it.
Outbreaks tend to become milder and less frequent over time, and daily medicine can reduce them further.
Genital herpes symptoms
First outbreak
- Painful blisters or open sores on or around the genitals or anus
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Fever, body aches and swollen glands in the groin
- Sores that crust over and heal within 2–4 weeks
Recurrent outbreaks
- Tingling, itching or burning before sores appear
- Fewer, smaller sores
- Shorter healing time
- Usually no fever or aches
Get in-person care if you have
These are less common but need prompt attention:
- Severe headache, stiff neck or confusion
- Trouble urinating, or being unable to urinate
How genital herpes is diagnosed
The most accurate way to diagnose herpes is a swab test (PCR) of an active sore, ideally within the first few days. It also shows whether the virus is HSV-1 or HSV-2, which affects how often outbreaks are likely to return.
Blood tests can show past infection when no sores are present, but they have limits and aren't recommended for routine screening. Your provider can treat based on your symptoms and history while advising on testing.
Treating genital herpes
Antiviral medicines don't remove the virus, but they work well to control it. There are three ways to use them:
| First outbreak | Antiviral medicine for 7–10 days. Everyone with a first episode should be treated. |
|---|---|
| Episodic treatment | A short course started at the first tingle of an outbreak, ideally within a day |
| Suppressive therapy | A daily antiviral that reduces outbreaks and lowers the risk of passing herpes to a partner |
Your provider will help you choose based on how often you get outbreaks, how much they affect you and your relationship situation.
Easing an outbreak
- Keep sores clean and dry, and wear loose cotton underwear
- Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, if they're safe for you
- Pour lukewarm water over the area while urinating if it stings
- Avoid sexual contact from the first tingle until sores have fully healed
Is an online herpes visit right for you?
Online care is often a good fit if you:
- Have been diagnosed with herpes and need episodic or suppressive treatment
- Have recurrent outbreaks you recognize
- Want to discuss lowering transmission to a partner
Get in-person care if you:
- Have sores for the first time and want a swab test
- Have a weakened immune system or severe symptoms
How PulseCareMD can help with genital herpes
A PulseCareMD visit gives you a private place to talk about herpes and get an antiviral plan that fits your life. Your visit fee covers the consultation.
Tell us about your symptoms
Answer private questions about outbreaks, past diagnosis and your goals for treatment.
A provider reviews it
A licensed provider weighs episodic versus daily antiviral treatment for you. Many visits are reviewed within 2–3 hours.
Get your treatment plan
An episodic or daily treatment plan, if appropriate.
Lowering the chance of passing herpes on
Combining these steps gives the most protection for partners:
Daily suppressive therapy
Shown to reduce transmission of HSV-2 to partners.
Use condoms
They lower, but don't eliminate, the risk.
Avoid sex during outbreaks
From the first warning signs until sores have healed.
Talk with partners
Open conversations help partners make informed choices.
Frequently asked questions
When to get emergency care
Go to the nearest emergency room if you have:
- Severe headache with a stiff neck or confusion
- Inability to urinate
- Eye pain or vision changes with a herpes outbreak