About the genital herpes STD
Genital herpes is a contagious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It affects the skin and mucous membranes of the body.
There are more different kinds of herpes viruses, but only one can cause the genital herpes. Called HSV-2, it is transmitted by vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact, (not spread by objects as toilet or swimming pools). It manifests by red and small watery blisters in the genital area, pain, itching or a burning sensation. In time, blisters will smash and and will become ulcers that will heal after two or three weeks. The ulcers won’t let any scar, but is important to know that, even if the external symptoms are gone, the disease can be still transmitted.
Almost 25% of the adult people presents antibodies against HSV-2, but that does not assure that the virus will be completely repelled.
First eruptions will appear after five days from the moment of the infection. They will be precede by uncomfortable piercing sensation. Some patients also presents fever, muscular pains and headaches or discomfort on passing urine, while some others have no symptoms at all.
In men, genital herpes usually appears on the penis and scrotum, but it can also spread on thighs and butt.
Even if the disease is treated, there are many chances of appearing another attacks, milder and, therefore, more difficult to diagnose. At the first signs, the infected man has to visit the doctor, for establishing the treatment, usually Zovirax (cream, tablets or suspension). With all treatments and hygienic prophylaxis, the disease has no cure : once infected, the patient will remain a bearer for the rest of his life. However, some treatments can reduce the duration and strength of the eruptions. Almost half of infected people will experience more than 6 outbreaks annual. Usually, after the first one, the symptoms are less obviously- fewer blisters, less pain, hurried healing. Patients with more than eight outbreaks per year will have to use a “suppressive therapy”. For them, the treatment will have to be more rigorous.
Usually, the herpes will turn on a full of stress period content. The patient can also take care of several things that will help him for feeling better: wear cotton underwear, loose-fitting clothes, make no hot shower or put ice pack on the affected area.
The best way to avoid the genital herpes is by using a condom during sexual relationships and avoiding sex with a partner that presents blisters or ulcers.