What is Genital Herpes?

It is a viral infection of the genitals. The virus then establishes itself permanently in the nerve cells and stays dormant for months or years. The first outbreak is severe and lasts from 1 to 3 weeks.

Symptoms of Genital Herpes

1. Flu-like symptoms, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches and sometimes, severe pain in the abdomen and legs occur within 21days after infection.
2. Painful sores and blisters on the genitals. Blisters and sores around the mouth occur occasionally.

Causes of Genital Herpes

1. The most common cause is Herpes Simplex Type 2 and Type 1 virus.
2. They can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact (oral, vaginal or anal sex) or kissing. It may recur repeatedly due to sunlight, fatigue, stress and intercourse.
3. People with a weakened immune system are at a greater risk..

Home remedies for Genital Herpes

1. Genitals can be irritated with tight pants and underwear, so wear comfortable ones.
2. Women can urinate through a tube or in the shower to prevent irritation due to vaginal sores.
3. Frequent warm baths and compresses provide temporary relief from pain. You can even use painkillers.

Preventing Genital Herpes

1. Talk to your physician if you are pregnant and infected, so that they can take the necessary measures to prevent the baby from getting infected.
2. Avoid sexual intercourse, if either partner has a blister or a sore, and if you or your partner has a cold sore on the mouth keep away from oral sex.
3. Use latex condom if either sex partner has inactive genital herpes, but don’t forget that a condom does not cover all infected areas.