How do I recognise genital herpes?

Usually, those infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. It is likely that most of those who are infected do not know they carry the virus. However, some people do develop symptoms. Women are more likely to develop symptoms than men. The most common symptom is the growth of painful, burning blisters on the skin and mucosa in the genital area. Infected persons may also develop a fever and muscle aches or generally feel unwell. The herpes simplex virus remains present in the body forever. This means that symptoms may be recurrent.

There are various subtypes of the virus. Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 may also cause a cold sore.

How do I become infected with genital herpes?

The risk of transmitting herpes is greatest when blisters are present. However, even if there are no blisters, the virus may still be present in bodily fluids, such as saliva or vaginal discharge. When these blisters or bodily fluids come into contact with the vaginal mucosa, penis, anus or mouth during sex, the carrier can transmit the virus.

In addition, a carrier with a cold sore can transmit the virus to the genitals through saliva or oral sex. Vice versa, the virus can also cause a cold sore when transmitted through oral sex. Condom use reduces the risk of herpes transmission, but it does not offer full protection.

Pregnant women with genital herpes can infect their baby during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Infections in babies are known as herpes simplex or neonatal herpes infections. When babies develop an infection in the eye, the central nervous system or other organs, they can become seriously ill. 

How do I avoid genital herpes?

Condom use can help prevent spreading the virus, but even a condom offers no full protection. The most sensible course of action is to avoid sex with partners who have blisters in the pubic area or a cold sore.

How do I treat genital herpes?

Carriers of the virus are infected for life. There is no treatment against the herpes virus. However, the symptoms can be treated in the event the virus develops into a full-blown disease outbreak.

How common is genital herpes?

Around 7 in 10 people carry the herpes simplex virus. The exact number of people who are infected with herpes each year is unknown. This is partly due to the fact that standard STD tests do not check for herpes.

Most people with symptoms visit their GP. In 2022, around 28,500 people were diagnosed by their GP. Genital herpes is more common among women than men. In 2023, Sexual Health Centres diagnosed 513 cases. The Health Centres do not check for herpes as standard either.