Symptoms of genital herpes can be relieved, but there is no cure for this recurring infection. Doctors from KK Women's and Children's Hospital shares it symptoms, complications and treatments.
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
