Herpes is a very common viral infection that can affect people of any age or gender. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which stays in the body after the initial infection and can reactivate from time to time.
Many people carry the virus without obvious symptoms and may not even know they have it. With the right information and care, herpes can be effectively managed.
Types of Herpes Virus
There are two main types of herpes simplex virus:
- HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1):
Commonly causes cold sores (blisters around the lips or mouth), but can also infect the genital area. - HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2):
Mainly causes genital herpes, but can sometimes infect the mouth.
Both types can cause blisters or ulcers on the skin or mucous membranes.
How Herpes Spreads
Herpes spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with the infected area:
- Kissing or oral contact (commonly spreads HSV-1)
- Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral; HSV-2 is more common, but HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes)
- Even without visible symptoms, the virus can be passed on through asymptomatic shedding
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. Common signs include:
- Painful blisters or sores on the lips, genitals, anus, or surrounding skin
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensations before a sore appears
- During the first outbreak, you may experience fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue
- Recurrences are usually milder and shorter, and can be triggered by:
- Stress
- Illness
- Menstruation
- Sun exposure (oral herpes)
Some people may have no symptoms at all but can still transmit the virus.
Herpes Treatment
Herpes is not curable, but it is very manageable.
- The virus stays in the body and may reactivate occasionally.
- Antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir can:
- Shorten the length of outbreaks
- Reduce discomfort and pain
- Lower the risk of passing the virus to others
There are two treatment approaches:
- Episodic therapy: taken when symptoms appear
- Suppressive therapy: taken daily to prevent recurrences
How to Reduce Transmission Risk
- Avoid direct contact with affected areas during outbreaks
- Use condoms or dental dams during sex (not 100% protective but reduces risk)
- Daily antiviral medication may help if you have frequent outbreaks
- Communicate openly with your partner and manage the condition together
Genital Herpes and Relationships
Genital herpes is a very common condition. Many people carry the virus for years without knowing it, and it can be passed on even when there are no symptoms.
Because of this, it is usually impossible to know exactly when or from whom the virus was transmitted. It is not helpful or recommended to blame yourself or your partner.
Blame and guilt can harm relationships and emotional wellbeing. What truly matters is:
- Supporting each other
- Communicating openly
- Learning how to manage the virus together and reduce the risk of transmission
If you have questions or concerns about herpes, you’re welcome to contact:
Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane
Japanese-speaking doctor: Dr. Tatsuro Nagashima
-NSW Health – Genital Herpes Fact Sheet
http://health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/herpes.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.comHealth
-Victoria – Herpes Simplex Infections
-Herpes and Relationships
