Genital herpes: Your questions answered
What exactly is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). One important thing to know about the virus is that once a person contracts it, it remains in the body for life. It may cause visible symptoms, known as outbreaks, or remain completely dormant for long periods, much like oral herpes, commonly known as a cold sore.
What makes the virus particularly tricky is that an infected person can transmit it to their partners even without symptoms. That’s why it’s important to understand how herpes spreads and take the appropriate precautions to protect yourself and others. This is especially important during pregnancy, as transmission to a baby can have serious consequences.
How is genital herpes transmitted?
The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, particularly through mucous membranes, the moist and sensitive areas around the genitals, mouth and anus. This can happen during:
- Vaginal or anal sex
- Oral sex
- Mutual masturbation
- The sharing of sex toys
It’s important to know that transmission can occur without penetration, ejaculation or orgasm. The virus is most contagious during an active outbreak, but it can be transmitted at any time. An infected mother can also transmit the virus to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
What are the symptoms?
The first outbreak is usually the most intense and occurs, on average, about six days after exposure to the virus. The most common symptoms include:
- Fluid-filled blisters on the genitals, pubic area, buttocks, thighs or anus. These blisters can develop into weeping sores, which are the most contagious stage of the infection.
- Itching and a burning sensation in the affected area
- General symptoms, such as fever, headache, fatigue and muscle aches
Over time, outbreaks generally become less frequent, less severe and shorter. Without treatment, an outbreak may last between 8 and 10 days.
True or false: Herpes can spread to the eyes.
True. If an infected person touches a herpes lesion and then rubs their eyes without washing their hands, they can develop an eye infection caused by HSV. This form of ocular herpes can be serious and, if left untreated, may lead to severe complications, including vision loss or blindness. Frequent handwashing is therefore a simple but important precaution.
What can trigger an outbreak?
Everyone responds differently to the virus. However, certain factors are known to make symptoms more likely to appear:
- Physical or emotional stress, which can weaken the body’s natural defences
- Menstruation, because of the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle
- Fatigue or a weakened immune system. People who are immunocompromised may experience outbreaks that are more frequent, longer-lasting and more severe.
How can genital herpes be prevented?
Condoms are among the most effective ways to reduce the risk of transmission, but they do not cover every area where the virus may be present, such as the pubic area, buttocks, or scrotum. They therefore lower the risk without eliminating it completely. Recommended precautions include:
- Avoiding sexual contact as soon as symptoms appear and until all lesions have completely healed
- Using condoms or dental dams consistently, even when no symptoms are visible
- Talking openly with sexual partners about your status so everyone can make informed decisions
How is genital herpes diagnosed?
A healthcare professional can take a sample from an active lesion and send it to a laboratory for testing. Results are generally available within 48 to 72 hours. While waiting for the results, it is strongly recommended to avoid sexual activity. If the test is positive, recent sexual partners should be informed so they can watch for symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
How is genital herpes treated?
There is currently no treatment that can permanently eliminate the virus from the body. However, antiviral medications are available and can:
- Significantly reduce the frequency of outbreaks
- Reduce the severity and duration of symptoms during an active outbreak
- Lower the risk of transmitting the virus to a partner
Ces traitements peuvent être pris ponctuellement lors des poussées, ou de façon continue en prévention
When should you see a healthcare professional?
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional as soon as symptoms of genital herpes appear. This can help determine the cause of the symptoms and ensure that appropriate treatment is started promptly. It also helps reduce the risk of passing the infection on to others.