​​​Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Complications, Treatment​
​Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Complications, Treatment​

Genital herpes ​is primarily spread through sexual contact.

Symptoms of genital herpes can be relieved, but there is no cure for this recurring infection

Genital herpes is a highly contagious, common viral infection caused​ by a strain of herpes simplex virus (HSV). "It is primarily spread through sexual contact" say doctors from KK Women's and Children's Hospital, a member of the SingHealth​ group.

Signs & symptoms of genital herpes

The signs and symptoms of genital herpes appear about 2-10 days after sexual contact with an infected person and may be mild or indiscernible. They include:

  • Itching or a burning sensation in the genital area
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Small sores or blisters in or near the vagina

Complications of genital herpes

Genital herpes is a self-limiting infection and infection that recurs is incurable. The sores may heal after a few days, but may recur for years after that, although the episodes of breakout tend to lessen with time.

A woman with genital herpes may infect her baby at childbirth, causing blindness and mental retardation.

Treating genital herpes

Treatment with anti-virals helps to speed up the healing of the sores and relieves pain and discomfort, but it cannot prevent recurrence.

Ref: O17

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