Genital herpes is one of the most commonly occurring STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases). It is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. There are two variations of the virus: type 1 or also referred to as HSV-1 and type 2 also commonly known as HSV-2. Type 1 which is the culprit behind the cold sores you might see people sporting on their lips and type 2 which is most commonly responsible for genital herpes.
Genital herpes has no preference when it comes to gender or age. It affects both men and women although HSV-2 does seem to have a higher rate of occurrence in women.
A person can only get infected during sexual contact with someone who is already infected. The most common way to transmit the HSV virus is thru sexual intercourse. Sexual intercourse can be vaginal, anal or oral sex. Most people have none to very minimal signs or symptoms from type 1 or type 2 infection. When signs do occur, they tend to appear as small blisters in the pubic and anal region of the person infected. These blisters break leaving sores that may take several weeks to heal. In most cases, the first outbreak is the most severe. Signs and symptoms during the first outbreak include flu-like symptoms, fever and swollen glands. Outbreaks tend to happen less often and less severe over time.
When a person has an outbreak, which means that the blisters are present, they are more likely to transmit the disease. That doesn't mean that someone who is infected with genital herpes and doesn't have blisters is safe. They're not. Safe sex practices do need to be followed regardless of the presence of blisters.
The only real way to be diagnosed with genital herpes is by getting a blood test. When you are diagnosed with genital herpes you may view that as the end of your sexual life. It's not. Many people live with this condition and enjoy active intimate lives. There are multiple sites dedicated to introduce singles with herpes for dating.
Some surprising facts about genital herpes that many people aren't aware of include:
* Approximately 1 million people are infected with genital herpes each year.
* In the United States it's estimated that 1 in 5 people are infected with genital herpes.
* Type-2 infections are more common in women than in men.
* Up to 90% of people who are infected with genital herpes aren't aware of it.
In order to manage this condition, you do need to be diagnosed by a doctor. That's the first step towards treatment. There is not an available cure for genital herpes but it can be managed by oral medication known as suppressive therapy. The medicine helps reduce the number of outbreaks you can experience but as time progresses, your body gets used to the viral infection and is able to fight is reducing the number of outbreaks.
If your partner confides in you that he or she may have genital herpes or you suspect that you may be infected, plan a visit to your physician as soon as possible. With the required knowledge in hand you can take control of your sexual health.
Carmen Peralta is the Genital Herpes channel guide at Herpes Dating website STDSingles.com. She is also a a biology student in Virginia.
