Herpes Symptoms & Herpes Testing

What is it

Herpes (herpes simplex) is a very common and highly infectious virus which has two types:

  • Herpes Simplex 1 (HSV 1) - The most likely cause of cold sores, typically around the mouth. This virus can also be caught genitally through oral sex.
  • Herpes Simplex 2 (HSV 2) - The virus that typically causes sores around the genitals. It may also be caught around the mouth through oral sex.

Herpes Simplex 1 or cold sores should really not be considered an STI as infection can occur in so many non-sexual ways - although it is responsible for about half of "genital herpes" cases. Herpes Simplex 2, or Genital Herpes, is typically caught on the genitals and is transmitted through sexual contact. Up to 60% of people who have Genital HSV are unlikely to know they are infected as their symptoms will be minimal or non-existent. They are capable of infecting partners through sex when the virus is present on the genitals, causing pimples, little cuts, itchy or sore skin. Occasionally, there may be virus present with no visible sign (asymptomatic viral shedding).

how can i get it?

Herpes is spread through unprotected oral, vaginal or anal contact with an infected person. The risk of catching or transmitting Herpes is highest when your partner has blisters or sores. It is still possible to get Genital Herpes when your partner does not have any visible sores or blisters but this is much less likely. Recurrent symptoms are almost always on visible skin - sores inside the vagina or anus are usually only present as part of a primary infection and are unlikely to accompany a recurrence.

how do i know if i have it?

The Herpes Simplex Virus may cause blisters on the genital areas of both men and women. These blisters typically develop within 2 days to 3 weeks after getting infected. The blisters start off as small bumps, grow into full blisters, and burst releasing pus. Herpes blisters can be small or large and can be just one blister, or many located close together. Other symptoms can include painful itching, burning, headache, swollen glands in the groin, and generalized muscle aches. The first episode or outbreak is usually the most severe with later outbreaks becoming milder. Most people catch the virus without developing these symptoms.

herpes testing ~ testing for herpes

Many times a visual inspection is all that is needed to diagnose Genital Herpes. If you think you have had symptoms but they have cleared up and there is no visible lesion at the time of your visit, then your doctor can take a culture sample from the infected area of the skin and test it in a lab for Herpes. There are also blood tests that can be done, though these will not by themselves reveal whether an infection is genital or facial. At Better2Know, you can be tested for Herpes at any of our clinics around the UK. Results are typically available within 2 to 5 business days, though this sometimes takes longer.

herpes treatment

Like several other infections, once it is caught, Herpes Simplex (HSV 1 and HSV 2) stays in the body and a minority of those infected get recurrent outbreaks. Fortunately, there are ways to decrease the frequency and severity of the outbreaks. There are anti-viral medications available (both creams and pills) which can help control the infection. These include Acyclovir, Famvir, Valtrex, and Zovirax. In addition, there are lifestyle changes which can also help control the time between outbreaks and their severity. All the Better2Know clinics can provide you with a prescription for medication and provide advice on lifestyle changes to help you control the infection if you test positive.

Other Adverse Consequences ~ Pregnancy

Herpes is one of the most common STIs a pregnant woman can be infected with. Most women with herpes who give birth have carried the virus for some time and this is very unlikely to affect the baby.However primary (first time) lesions that are exposed near the vaginal opening during delivery could cause the disease to be passed on to the infant, potentially causing serious neo-natal infection.  In these cases, a caesarean section is usually carried out. Recurrences at term are very unlikely to cause this problem so a natural birth is recommended for most women. This is explained more fully at www.herpes.org.uk/FAQ.html#27 . In addition, you can find guidelines at from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists at http://www.rcog.org.uk/genital-herpes-pregnancy-information-for-you.

There is an increased chance of recurrent symptoms during pregnancy. These will not harm your baby but do mean that some women who have previously been asymptomatic may notice symptoms for the first time whist pregnant.

Test

We offer a blood test for Herpes antibodies or a swab if there are visible lesions.

Treatment

Most carriers of herpes need no treatment because symptoms are slight or non-existent.For those who experience recurrences, there are several drugs which can prevent or treat them.Healthy lifestyle changes can also make a difference.

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