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Intimate Health

Herpes

HERPES Is Manageable -
Get the Right Care

Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). It can cause blisters, sores,itching, burning, or painful urination, but some people have no noticeable symptoms. While there is no cure for herpes, treatment can help manage outbreaks, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of transmission.

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Genital sores• Blisters• Itching• Burning• Painful urination• Tingling• Recurrent outbreaks•

understanding herpes

What Does Herpes Testing Check?

HSV-1

HSV-1 commonly causes oral herpes but can also cause genital herpes, including through oral- genital contact.

HSV-2

HSV-2 is the more common cause of genital herpes and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact.

Active infection

Checks for evidence of HSV infection when symptoms such as blisters, sores, itching, burning, or pain are present.

Asymptomatic infection

HSV can sometimes be present even when there are no visible blisters or sores.

YOUR CARE PATH

01

STEP-01

First consultation

The doctor begins with a discussion about your symptoms, previous outbreaks, sexual health, and possible exposure.

STEP-02

Testing and assessment

When sores are present, your healthcare professional may examine the affected area and take a sample for testing. Testing may include a swab from an active sore. In selected situations, a blood test may be considered. Testing for other STIs may also be recommended based on your symptoms and sexual history.

STEP-03

Personalised treatment plan

There is currently no cure that removes HSV from the body, but antiviral medicines can help manage the infection. Treatment may help sores heal faster, reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks, and reduce recurrent episodes. Daily suppressive treatment may also reduce the risk of transmission for some people.

STEP-04

Review and adjustment

Your treatment is reviewed based on your symptoms and how often outbreaks occur. Care may be adjusted to manage recurrent outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.

Symptoms

When To Seek Help?

Speak with a healthcare professional if:

You develop unexplained genital, anal, or oral blisters or sores

You experience genital itching, burning, or pain

Urination becomes painful

You have repeated outbreaks

You think you may have been exposed to herpes

A sexual partner has genital herpes

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Herpes simplex virus can sometimes be shed from the skin without visible symptoms, allowing transmission even when sores are absent. Avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks and using appropriate preventive measures can reduce risk.

No. A positive herpes antibody test generally cannot establish the exact date of infection or identify the source. Results need to be interpreted alongside symptoms, exposure history, and the limitations of the specific test.

Routine herpes blood screening is not generally recommended for everyone without symptoms because tests have limitations and false-positive results can occur. Testing may be appropriate in selected circumstances after a discussion with a clinician.

Yes. Antiviral medication can shorten outbreaks, and daily suppressive treatment can reduce recurrence frequency for some people. Your clinician can advise whether episodic or suppressive treatment is more suitable.

Genital herpes can have important implications during pregnancy, particularly if a first infection occurs late in pregnancy. Inform your obstetric clinician about a history of herpes so appropriate precautions can be planned.

Yes. People with genital herpes can have healthy relationships and sexual lives. Understanding transmission risk, discussing the infection with partners, and considering preventive measures can support informed decisions.