How to Spot the Symptoms of Genital Herpes



Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is estimated that 1 in 8 adults in the United States have genital herpes, but many are unaware they have it. While there is no cure for genital herpes, recognizing its symptoms can help you get proper treatment and reduce the risk of spreading it to others.

The most common symptom of genital herpes is an outbreak of painful blisters or ulcers in or around the genitals. These sores may appear on the penis, vulva, anus, buttocks, thighs or other parts of the body. They usually start out as small red bumps that then turn into fluid-filled blisters that break open and ooze fluid. The sores may be accompanied by a burning sensation and itching around the affected area. In some cases, there may be no visible signs of an outbreak at all.

Other symptoms associated with genital herpes include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes in the groin area. An individual may also experience pain when urinating if the sores are located near the urethra opening on either men or women. Additionally, some people with genital herpes experience psychological distress due to their condition such as depression and anxiety.

If you believe you may have been exposed to HSV or are experiencing any of these symptoms associated with genital herpes it’s important to seek medical attention right away so a doctor can properly diagnose your condition through a physical exam and laboratory tests such as blood work or a swab test from inside one of your sores for further analysis under a microscope.

Getting tested for STIs regularly is important for maintaining good sexual health; this includes getting tested even if you don’t show any signs or symptoms since many STIs like genital herpes don’t always present themselves outwardly initially but can still be contagious even without noticeable signs present yet. Remember: knowledge is power!

Tags:

Genital herpes, STI, HSV, Adults, United States, Symptoms, Painful blisters/ulcers, Genitals, Burning sensation/itching, Flu-like symptoms, Fever/headache/muscle aches/swollen lymph nodes in groin area. Pain when urinating. Psychological distress (depression and anxiety). Medical attention. Laboratory tests (blood work or swab test). Regular testing for STIs. Knowledge is power.,

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