What is Herpes, genital?

Herpes, genital

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Anyone who has sex can get it. Most of the time the infection doesn't cause any problems. But from time to time the virus becomes active and causes painful sores around your genitals.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus. Herpes simplex virus type 2 is the most common cause of genital herpes. It's sometimes called HSV-2 for short. Herpes simplex virus type 1 mostly causes cold sores. But it can also cause genital herpes.

The viruses that cause genital herpes spread from one person to another through sex. You may not be able to tell you've got genital herpes because it doesn't always cause symptoms.

Most people with genital herpes have no symptoms.

You can catch genital herpes from a sexual partner:

Before they know they are infected
Before their first attack
During an attack, when they have symptoms
Between attacks, when they have no symptoms but the virus is still active.

You can also catch genital herpes by receiving oral sex from your sexual partner if they have a cold sore, or if they’ve had a cold sore in the past.

Once you've got the herpes simplex virus, you never get rid of it. Most people catch genital herpes viruses from people with no obvious symptoms.

You can pass on genital herpes to a sexual partner:

Source:
Drake S, Taylor S, Brown D, et al.
Improving the care of patients with genital herpes.
BMJ. 2005; 321: 619-623.

Before you know you are infected
Before you've had your first attack of symptoms
During an attack, when you have genital symptoms such as sores or cracks
Between attacks, when you have no genital symptoms but the virus is still active.

You can also pass on genital herpes by giving oral sex when you have a cold sore, or if you've had a cold sore in the past.

If you are in a long-term relationship, the appearance of genital herpes doesn't necessarily mean that you or your partner has been unfaithful. One of you could have been carrying a herpes virus for a long time without knowing it.

Sources for the information on this page:

Drake S, Taylor S, Brown D, et al.Improving the care of patients with genital herpes.BMJ. 2005; 321: 619-623.

This information was last updated on Jun 08, 2008

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
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