Genital Herpes
I'm familiar...
Genital Herpes (simplex) is a very common sexually transmitted disease (STD). There are two main types of herpes simplex, 1 and 2.
Although most genital infections are caused by herpes simplex 2, the cases in which they are caused by herpes simplex 1 are increasing.
Herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1)
This is the type of herpes that can be passed from skin to skin contact and is known as the herpes found in the common cold sore around the mouth. It can be spread from mouth to mouth contact or can be spread from mouth to genitals during sex. On average, this type of herpes doesn't have as many flare ups as herpes simplex 2.
Herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2)
This is the type of herpes most commonly associated with STDs. Herpes simplex 2 is the kind of herpes that is usually found on the genitals. Like herpes simplex 1, it is spread through skin to skin contact, but most commonly through sex.
In general
The virus is spread from sexual encounters, and most cases of genital herpes are trasmitted by people without symptoms or before people begin to show symptoms.
Once a person is infected, the infection will be inactive, only causing flare ups a few times a year.
When the herpes bumps do appear they can cause pain, itching and sores around the genitals. Also if somene does have herpes, they can spread the virus even if they do not have any visible sores.
I have it. What now?
While there is no current cure for genital herpes, symptoms and the ability to spread the infection to others can be reduced with certain medications as well as using condoms during sex.
If you have been diagnosed with either type of herpes, talk to your doctor about what you can do to manage the disorder and ensure that you don't spread it to future partners.
I'm familiar...
Genital Herpes (simplex) is a very common sexually transmitted disease (STD). There are two main types of herpes simplex, 1 and 2.
Although most genital infections are caused by herpes simplex 2, the cases in which they are caused by herpes simplex 1 are increasing.
Herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1)
This is the type of herpes that can be passed from skin to skin contact and is known as the herpes found in the common cold sore around the mouth. It can be spread from mouth to mouth contact or can be spread from mouth to genitals during sex. On average, this type of herpes doesn't have as many flare ups as herpes simplex 2.
Herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2)
This is the type of herpes most commonly associated with STDs. Herpes simplex 2 is the kind of herpes that is usually found on the genitals. Like herpes simplex 1, it is spread through skin to skin contact, but most commonly through sex.
In general
The virus is spread from sexual encounters, and most cases of genital herpes are trasmitted by people without symptoms or before people begin to show symptoms.
Once a person is infected, the infection will be inactive, only causing flare ups a few times a year.
When the herpes bumps do appear they can cause pain, itching and sores around the genitals. Also if somene does have herpes, they can spread the virus even if they do not have any visible sores.
I have it. What now?
While there is no current cure for genital herpes, symptoms and the ability to spread the infection to others can be reduced with certain medications as well as using condoms during sex.
If you have been diagnosed with either type of herpes, talk to your doctor about what you can do to manage the disorder and ensure that you don't spread it to future partners.
Symptom list:
Genital Herpes
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!
