Ways of infection with genital herpes - symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Genital herpes - causes and symptoms of the disease, treatment methods, folk remedies. How to treat herpes during pregnancy and in children? Does genital herpes

Contents:

How long does a person with genital herpes remain contagious?

A person becomes infectious to other people a few days after he himself becomes infected.

People whose herpes causes a rash on the genitals become contagious soon after the first signs of the disease appear. The virus continues to be excreted from their body (it is contained in the mucus released from the genitals, in the fluid and blood that is in the sores) for approximately the first 8-9 days of the disease.

People who have had genital herpes in the past, but who do not have any symptoms of the disease, periodically begin to shed asymptomatic virus, lasting for 24-48 hours. Such episodes of asymptomatic viral shedding can continue throughout life.

What are the symptoms and signs of genital herpes?

In other cases, after entering the human body, the herpes virus begins to multiply rapidly and causes the appearance of a characteristic painful rash.

Incubation period Incubation period- this is the period of time between the moment the infection enters the human body and the moment the first symptoms of the disease appear.
For many viral respiratory tract infections, such as influenza, the incubation period is 1-3 days (that is, the first symptoms of the disease appear 1-3 days after infection with the virus). For other infections, the incubation period can vary from a few days (less often hours) to several weeks, months or years. genital herpes is on average 4 days, but can vary from 1 to 26 days.

Symptoms and signs of genital herpes in women

• The first symptoms of the disease may be: small itchy or painful “red spots” on the labia majora or minora, on the skin around the genitals or anus.
• Over the course of several hours, along with increased itching and pain, the “spots” bulge and turn into blisters filled with clear liquid. Quite often, bubbles appear on the walls of the vagina, as well as on the cervix, but in these places they are difficult to notice. The blisters may fit tightly together, forming very itchy clusters.
• Over the next few days, the bubbles burst. In place of the burst blisters, shallow but painful ulcers form.
• It may take several weeks for the sores to heal completely.
• Additional symptoms may be (rather abundant, transparent or whitish), strong pain and burning during urination.

Symptoms and signs of genital herpes in men

In men, the blisters and remaining sores characteristic of genital herpes are formed mainly on the penis (on the head, on the foreskin or on the shaft), as well as on the scrotum or on the skin around the penis or anus.

General symptoms

In both women and men, simultaneously with the rash described above on the genitals, the following may be observed:

• enlarged and painful lymph nodes in the groin area;
• abdominal pain (associated with enlarged lymph nodes inside the abdomen);
• fever, chills, weakness, pain in muscles and joints.

Why do relapses (exacerbations) of genital herpes occur?

Some time (usually 3-4 weeks) after infection with the herpes virus (type 1 or 2), the human body develops immunity, which protects against recurrence of severe episodes of infection in the future.

However, this immunity cannot completely eliminate the infection from the body. In its “dormant” form, the virus remains in some cells of the human body throughout life.

Periodically, the virus passes from a “dormant form” to an active one and begins to multiply again - in this case, a relapse (exacerbation) of the disease occurs.

As a rule, relapses of genital herpes last much less and generally pass much easier than the first episode of the disease.

According to some studies, relapses of genital herpes are especially common within 1 year after infection and occur in more than 90% of infected people.

In people infected with type 2 herpes simplex virus, exacerbations occur much more often (up to 6-10 times a year) than in people infected with type 1 herpes simplex virus.

As a rule, in one person, over time, exacerbations of genital herpes occur less and less often.

As clinical observations show, the development of relapses of genital herpes can be facilitated by conditions in which there is a decrease in immunity, in particular, mental (mental) and physical fatigue, stress, prolonged exposure to the sun (or visiting a solarium), menstruation (in women).

How dangerous is genital herpes? Possible complications and consequences

In the vast majority of cases, the human immune system manages to contain the proliferation of herpes viruses types 1 and 2, which cause genital herpes. As a result, most people experience this infection without serious complications or health consequences.

In some cases, from the genital area, a herpes infection can spread to the fingers (the appearance of severe inflammation of the skin around the nail) or to the eyes (a gradually increasing ulcer on the cornea, a feeling that “something has got into the eye”).

When do you need to see a doctor urgently?

Genital herpes during pregnancy

During pregnancy, genital herpes can cause a number of serious complications, including early pregnancy loss, birth defects, infection of the child, and severe complications after childbirth.

What tests are needed to detect genital herpes?

Diagnosis of genital herpes is carried out using the following methods:

Blood test for antibodies against the herpes virus

This test detects IgG antibodies, which the immune system produces to suppress the replication of the herpes virus.

Unfortunately, this test often cannot accurately indicate which type of herpes simplex virus a person is infected with (1 or 2) and when the infection occurred.

Variations in the titer of IgG antibodies in the blood are not of great importance in determining the degree of activity of the infection, since quite often during the next exacerbation the titer remains low.

Antibodies of the IgM type have virtually no significance in the diagnosis of herpes infection.

PCR analysis

Much more accurate results can be obtained using PCR and methods for growing a virus culture. These are quite complex and expensive tests that are used by doctors when it is necessary to accurately determine the type of infection.

Genital herpes is an infectious disease caused by herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2. It must be remembered that herpes infection is a chronic disease. Exacerbations are replaced by the disappearance of symptoms (doctors say: “remission”).

Genital herpes - one of the forms of herpetic infection, transmitted primarily through sexual contact and serving as the most common cause of ulcerative lesions of the genital organs. Herpes is one of the most common and poorly controlled viral infections in humans.

Genital herpes transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, including oral-genital and anal-genital.

An infected person may not know about his infection (that he is sick), but at the same time be a source of infection! Infection caused by herpes simplex viruses is extremely common. In Russia there is no exact data, but “colds” on the lips are a very common occurrence. And this is also a manifestation of a herpes infection.

Herpes infection is widespread, over 90% of the world's population is infected with herpes viruses and 20–35% of them develop a variety of clinical manifestations. The peculiarity of herpetic infection is lifelong carriage of the virus in the body, recurrent nature and progressive course, i.e. the appearance of more severe clinical symptoms with increasing duration of the disease.

More than 80 representatives of the family of herpes viruses (Herpesviridae) are known, of which 8 types, pathogenic for humans, are ubiquitous (i.e., distributed everywhere), affect various tissues, and cause various clinical forms of the disease.

Prevalence genital herpes is steadily increasing throughout the world and in Russia, which is apparently due to asymptomatic, atypical, unrecognized forms of clinical course, resistance to existing treatment methods, and inadequate assessment by doctors genital herpes as a disease in general, due to the lack of highly effective prevention.

Genital herpes classified as sexually transmitted infections, infection rates increase with age and are directly related to the number of sexual partners. To date, the emergence genital herpes associated with the detection of antibodies to two serotypes of HSV - HSV1 and HSV2. In 70–80% of cases genital herpes causes HSV1, in 20–30% of cases - HSV2, which is apparently associated with household and orogenital routes of infection. During pregnancy, infection of the fetus can occur through the transcervical (ascending) and transplacental routes. Seroepidemiological studies have shown differences between the prevalence of seropositivity and the incidence itself. In Europe, 20–40% of women of reproductive age are seropositive, in England - 10%, in Russia - 20–31%, in the USA - 40–45%, in South Africa - 80%, and in Asia (Syria) - 0%.

How dangerous is genital herpes? Is it possible to plan a pregnancy and give birth while infected with herpes simplex viruses?

First of all, it should be noted that in the vast majority of patients, herpes infection is asymptomatic, and only a small proportion develop symptoms and complaints. With correctly prescribed treatment (and treatment must be recommended by a doctor!) there is a high probability that your condition will improve and relapses will become rare.

Pregnancy can be planned. If an exacerbation occurs during pregnancy, together with an obstetrician-gynecologist, it is necessary to choose the method of delivery and measures to prevent herpetic infection of the newborn. The vast majority of doctors are convinced that genital herpes, when properly treated, does not affect the ability to become pregnant and does not cause congenital deformities of the fetus.

Herpes viruses and the diseases they cause

According to official statistics (since 1993, mandatory registration has been introduced in the Russian Federation genital herpes ), in Russia in 2005, 30 million people were infected, and the incidence of HH in 1995 was 8.8%, in 2001 - 19%, in 2004 - 20.2%. In Moscow, the prevalence genital herpes is 19.7%.

How does this infection manifest?

In typical cases, these are characteristic rashes on the genital mucosa. The first episode (when you first encounter the virus) is accompanied by fever, weakness, and headache.

Exacerbations (repeated relapses) are usually less severe and less painful. There are also atypical cases of genital herpes. Most often, to confirm the diagnosis, a laboratory examination will be required - smears from the genital tract are examined (when there are rashes), and sometimes blood is examined to determine antibodies.

If you feel discomfort, pain and discomfort in the genital tract, be sure to consult a doctor.

Primary infection occurs during sexual contact with an infected partner through intact mucous membranes of the external genitalia, vagina, cervical canal and/or damaged skin. At the point of penetration, viruses begin to multiply, and typical blistering rashes appear. Viruses penetrate the bloodstream and lymphatic system, and invade the nerve endings of the skin and mucous membranes. Then they move centripetally through the cytoplasm of nerve endings, reaching peripheral, then segmental and regional sensory nerve ganglia, where they are stored in nerve cells for life, becoming invulnerable to antiviral attacks. Under the influence of stressful situations, ultraviolet or radioactive radiation, during the premenstrual period, with hormonal disorders, immunodeficiency and other conditions, the virus is activated. Relapses of herpes infection can also be found against the background of high levels of circulating antibodies, since the herpes virus spreads inside the nervous tissue, passing from one cell to another, avoiding contact with antibodies.

Virus-neutralizing antibodies, although they prevent the spread of infection, do not prevent the development of relapses.

The virus can migrate for a long time along peripheral nerves, causing irritation of nerve endings, leading to sensations in the form of skin itching and/or burning that precede vesicular rashes. Upon reaching the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, asymptomatic production of the virus or a pronounced relapse at the site of initial penetration may occur.

In domestic practice, the herpetic vaccine is used prophylactically according to the following scheme: intradermally 0.25 ml once every 3 days, 5 injections, break 2 weeks, then 0.25 ml once every 7 days, 5 injections. Revaccination is carried out after 6 months according to the same scheme and only during periods of stable remission.

First clinical episode of primary genital herpes recognized as a true manifestation of a primary herpetic infection, since the patient had never previously noted symptoms genital herpes , and there are no antiherpetic antibodies to HSV in the blood. Clinical manifestations usually appear after a 3–10-day incubation period, differing from subsequent relapses by a more severe and prolonged course (3–5 weeks). Symptoms of the disease begin with a flu-like state, chills, fever, itchy, grouped, painful blisters (8–10 or more) appear on the mucous membranes of the genital organs and/or adjacent areas of the skin on a reddened background. Subsequently, they are filled with purulent contents, open, forming ulcers, become crusty, and become wet. This lasts for 15–20 days. In female patients, the vulva, labia, urethra, perineum, perianal area, thighs, and buttocks are most often affected; There may be cervicitis - erosive or hemorrhagic, with watery or necrotic discharge. General malaise with symptoms of intoxication, headache, painful inguinal lymphadenopathy, urinary disorders, pain, itching, paresthesia are more often observed in women than in men. However, in some cases, primary infection of the genital organs may be asymptomatic with the further formation of latent (hidden) carriage of HSV or a recurrent form genital herpes .

Recurrent genital herpes occurs in 50–70% of cases, it is manifested by a chronic course, unpredictability of the clinical manifestation of relapse and remission period. Provoking factors include stress, overwork, hypothermia, menstruation, etc. A typical form of recurrent genital herpes characterized by severe symptoms with the classic development of a limited, less commonly widespread lesion and localization in the same area of ​​the skin or mucous membrane. 12–48 hours before the onset of the rash, local and general manifestations may appear: itching and burning in the lesion, swelling, inguinal lymphadenitis on the affected side, low-grade fever, weakness, malaise.

Atypical form genital herpes observed during reactivation of HSV without the development of a typical picture of the disease in patients with defective specific antiherpetic immunity. Occurs in 50–70% of cases, more often in women.

Atypical forms of recurrent genital herpes are characterized by the predominance of one of the stages of development of inflammation in the lesion (redness, blistering) or one of the components of inflammation, or subjective symptoms (itching), which give the corresponding name to the atypical form (erythematous, bullous, hemorrhagic, itchy, necrotic, etc. .). With the development of virological research methods, the diagnosis of “atypical form of recurrent genital herpes "put to indicate chronic inflammation of the internal genital organs.

In the epidemiological aspect, it is the low-symptomatic forms genital herpes dangerous for spread, since against the background of minimal clinical manifestations, HSV is released from the lesion, and patients are sexually active and infect sexual partners.

Complications:

●Urine retention.

●Secondary infectious complications caused by skin pathogenic microorganisms (creeping cellulitis).

●Formation of adhesions in the labia area.

●Severe pain syndrome.

●Infection of the fetus during pregnancy.

What leads to exacerbations of genital herpes?

Sometimes the trigger for exacerbations is climate change, increased sun exposure, colds, stressful situations, a certain phase of the menstrual cycle, hypothermia, surgical interventions, etc. But very often it is impossible to answer the question of what triggered this relapse.

Treatment

Despite the diverse arsenal of specific and nonspecific antiherpetic drugs, herpes still remains a poorly controlled infection, since modern medicine does not have methods for completely removing HSV from the human body.

Treatment Goals

●Suppression of HSV reproduction during an exacerbation to reduce the clinical manifestations of infection.

●Formation of an adequate immune response and its long-term preservation in order to block the reactivation of HSV in foci, which helps prevent relapses, as well as transmission of infection to a sexual partner or newborn.

The choice of treatment method is determined by the frequency of relapses and the severity of clinical symptoms, the state of the immune system, the risk of transmitting the infection to a sexual partner or newborn, and the psychosocial consequences of the infection.

Indications for hospitalization

●Heavy genital herpes and pregnancy.

●Ineffectiveness of outpatient treatment.

●Generalization of the process (with immunodeficiency).

All patients who have genital herpes , and their sexual partners should be aware of the recurrent nature of the disease and refrain from sexual activity during the period of rashes. In case of contact, a condom must be used. Sexual partners should be examined and, if they have HS, treated. Follow-up counseling of patients with HH is an important stage in patient management.

If therapy is ineffective, complications may develop. In most cases genital herpes becomes chronic with periodic relapses of the process.

How can you protect yourself from genital herpes?

An important factor in prevention is correctly prescribed treatment. Modern medications, when taken over a long period of time, reduce not only your risk of relapse, but also reduce the likelihood of infecting your partner. Be sure to ask your gynecologist or dermatovenerologist about possible measures to prevent infection, including modern medications. Barrier contraception (condom) reduces the risk of infection, but not completely. For example, herpetic rashes on the skin of the thighs and buttocks can lead to infection, even when using a condom.

Remember that a long-term, stable relationship with your spouse reduces your risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

Is herpes a death sentence?

In no case! Yes, modern medications cannot yet completely destroy viruses in your body, but they significantly reduce the negative consequences of the infection and its symptoms. When the first symptoms of an exacerbation appear (tingling, burning, discomfort), it is important to consult a gynecologist or dermatovenerologist as soon as possible and begin treatment. Ultimately, you shouldn't feel guilty or depressed. Remember: a good mood, positive emotions are a significant factor influencing many diseases, including genital herpes.

Content

Men and women often have to deal with intimate problems, and genital herpes is no exception. It refers to STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). However, just like AIDS and some HIV infections, herpes cannot be cured completely. A patient who has contracted a genital disease will remain a carrier of the virus for life, but treatment is mandatory to avoid dangerous complications. In order to detect and treat this pathology of the genital organs in a timely manner, you need to know about the symptoms and treatment regimens used for genital herpes.

What is genital herpes

Genital herpes in women and men is an infectious disease that is sexually transmitted. This venereal pathology is considered one of the most common diseases of the genitourinary system. This is due to the fact that there are many transmission routes for genital diseases, and infection after contact with a carrier occurs in the vast majority of cases.

Herpes infection is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus, or HSV for short. This pathogen has 7 types, but herpes on the genitals is possible only after infection with HSV-2 (in 80% of cases) and HSV-1 (in 20% of cases). The pathology affects the vaginal mucosa, labia, perineal area, anus, cervix, penis. Less commonly, manifestations of genital disease are found on the pubis, buttocks and thighs.

How is it transmitted?

There are several ways of transmitting the herpes simplex virus. Infection is possible through sexual contact, not only during normal genital sex, but also anal and oral sex. More often this happens after the first two types of sexual intercourse, because in these cases HSV-2 is transmitted, and during oral contact - HSV-1. In addition, herpes on the genitals is transmitted:

• By airborne droplets. Extremely rare and only with damaged mucous membranes or open wounds.
• From mother to child. This is possible if the fetus is infected or infected during childbirth.
• With self-infection. The patient himself can transfer the infection with his hands from one area of ​​the body to the genitals.
• By everyday means. Another rare route of transmission because it involves wet carrier objects and open wounds on the skin.

Symptoms

Signs of a genital disease depend on its type. So, some have no clinical manifestations, while for others they prevent them from living a normal life due to pain and discomfort. Common symptoms of genital herpes include:

• muscle pain;
• headache;
• elevated temperature (rare);
• general malaise;
• frequent urination;
• tingling during urination;
• itching and burning in the perineal area;
• inflamed lymph nodes in the groin;
• redness on the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs;
• groups of painful blisters with cloudy liquid inside.

In men

Genital herpes in men has different symptoms, which depend on the stage and type. This genital disease is characterized by:

• local itching, burning, irritation, redness in the genital area;
• swelling of the glans penis;
• pain during sexual intercourse;
• inflamed lymph nodes in the groin area;
• specific rash;
• a collection of small bubbles containing liquid.

Among women

What does herpes look like on girls' private parts? Information about the symptoms of herpes infection is below:

• itching of the skin and mucous membranes in the perineum and anus (if the rectum is infected);
• pain, burning and irritation of the genitals;
• temperature increase;
• enlarged lymph nodes in the pubic area;
• herpetic rashes in the form of characteristic blisters with liquid.

Symptoms during exacerbation

After a change in temperature, stress or a cold, frequent alcohol abuse or smoking, there is a high likelihood of relapses of genital disease. In addition, this happens when menstruation approaches.

First signs

An exacerbation of a disease of the genital organs manifests itself as follows:

1. Warning signs appear - itching, burning, pain in the genital area. The patient may feel general malaise and headache.
2. Rashes appear in the form of groups of bubbles with a cloudy liquid inside.
3. The blisters burst and weeping ulcers form.
4. The ulcers heal with crusts.
5. The crusts fall off, and in their place traces remain.

Causes

It is possible to become infected with genital herpetic disease through airborne droplets, genital-oral-anal and household routes. The reasons for this transmission of infection are considered to be:

• failure to comply with hygiene rules;
• weak immunity;
• early sexual life;
• promiscuous sexual intercourse;
• frequent change or presence of several sexual partners;
• unprotected sexual intercourse;
• gender of the person (women suffer from chronic disease more often than men);
• presence of sexually transmitted diseases.

Kinds

According to clinical symptoms, several types of genital herpes are distinguished for the primary episode of infection and all subsequent ones, which can have typical and atypical forms:

• Primary infection. The genital disease affects the external genitalia, the perineal area in women and the glans penis, foreskin in men. Symptoms of primary infection include itching, redness, blisters with fluid and herpetic ulcers on the genitals. All signs disappear after 2 weeks.
• Recurrent herpetic disease. After a primary infection, the next type often begins - relapse. There are 3 forms, which include mild (exacerbations less than 3 times a year), moderate (exacerbations 4-6 times a year), severe (exacerbations every month). The atypical clinical picture is chronic inflammatory diseases of the external genitalia.

Why is genital herpes dangerous?

Without timely treatment of a genital disease, complications may arise that cause discomfort or pose a health hazard. Local consequences of herpetic pathology include:

• Dryness and cracks in the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs.
• Bacterial and fungal infections, which are accompanied by itching, irritation, constant mucopurulent or cheesy discharge from the vagina in women.
• A papilloma virus that covers the genitals and perineum with many condylomas. This infection is a precursor to prostate or cervical cancer.

In addition to local complications, systemic ones are common. So, you can learn about the general consequences of genital disease from the following list:

• decreased immunity;
• constant aching pain in the lower abdomen, in the perineal area;
• persistent neurosis;
• depression;
• urinary retention;
• herpetic prostatitis;
• cystitis;
• urethritis;
• decreased sex drive.

Sex with genital herpes

The ability to have sex if you have genital herpes depends on the form of the disease. Thus, during an exacerbation, even with the use of condoms, the likelihood of HSV infection of the patient’s partner is high. This is due to the fact that the virus is found not only on the genitals, but also on seemingly intact areas. During remission, sexual intercourse with an HSV carrier is possible, as the risk of infection is reduced.

Recurrence of herpes

With weak immunity, the likelihood of relapse of chronic infection greatly increases. The impetus for this can be stress, hypothermia, colds, a strict diet and other changes in the body. It is possible to reduce the number of relapses with the right approach to treatment (use of antiviral drugs and traditional medicine) and increasing the protective properties of the immune system (exercise, healthy sleep, giving up bad habits).

Diagnostics

The examination includes examination of the patient and assessment of complaints. In addition, biological secretions are submitted to detect antibodies. To confirm genital herpes, they isolate the virus in the cell stump, donate blood to detect HSV, the presence of antibodies and antigens, and study the genetic material for DNA viruses. A negative result indicates a normal state of health. It means that:

• there are no antibodies and antigens in the blood;
• the virus is not observed in the cell stump.

Treatment of genital herpes

Appropriate drug treatment is administered to reduce the frequency of relapses and relieve symptoms. The treatment regimen includes:

• Preparations for treating local and general symptoms of genital herpes - itching, pain, fever, chills.

• Antiviral drugs are prescribed to suppress the virus in the body.
• Immuno-strengthening drugs to increase the body's resistance to herpes viruses.

Antiviral therapy

Antiviral drugs are mandatory for the treatment of genital herpes. The most effective of them are presented below:

• Acyclovir. A drug with an antiviral effect that has a selective effect on herpes viruses. Available in the form of tablets for oral use. For the treatment of genital herpes, 400 mg is prescribed 3 times a day for 7-10 days.
• Famciclovir. It is better absorbed into the body than Acyclovir, so its dosage is lower. Thus, genital herpes is treated with oral tablets of 250 mg 3 times a day for a week.
• Valaciclovir. The active substance is valacyclovir hydrochloride, which provides high bioavailability. It is often prescribed in combination with Acyclovir 500 mg 2 times a day.

Folk remedies

In addition to medications, traditional methods of treatment are used for quick recovery:

• Dilute 3 drops of lavender or geranium oil in warm boiled water. Make lotions with the solution at night, securing with a bandage or gauze. Has an anti-inflammatory and drying effect.
• Mix applesauce and onion juice, which have previously been grated. Add 2 tsp honey. Every day before meals, consume 2 tablespoons of this mixture to strengthen the immune system.

Genital herpes during pregnancy

How to cure genital herpes during pregnancy and avoid infection of the fetus? Antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy is carried out, but the use of most medications is possible only with the permission of a doctor. The treatment regimen depends on the trimester:

• First trimester. Antiviral drugs are used only for severe forms of genital herpes. Acyclovir is often prescribed intravenously at 200 mg 4 times a day. To correct immunity, 25 ml of Immunoglobulin is used intravenously 3 times a day. Zelenka is recommended as a local treatment for genital diseases.
• Second trimester. In addition to Acyclovir and Immunoglobulin, Viferon-1 rectal suppositories are prescribed 2 times a day for 10 days. For local treatment, antiviral ointment Acyclovir is used up to 8 times a day.
• Third trimester. The treatment regimen is practically no different from the second trimester, but instead of Viferon-1 suppositories, Viferon-2 is used.

Prevention

You won’t be able to completely protect yourself from a viral disease of the genitals, but the following tips will help greatly reduce the likelihood of contracting genital herpes:

• Strengthen your immune system.
• Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
• Do not practice promiscuity. If they occur, partners should undergo thorough toileting of the genitals within 1.5-2 hours after infection.
• Test blood in newborns for HSV if the mother is a carrier of the virus.
• Get vaccinated to develop nonspecific immunity.

Video

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

At this word, a nasty indentation on the lip, covered with a yellow-brown crust, comes to mind. But that's not all. In addition to the nasty bug, this virus can cause genital disease. This disease is even less pleasant. Read this article to the end and you will learn a lot of details about this disease.
This virus can confidently be called the “silent plague” of our time. Although they knew about it back in the ancient world. In chronicles, the first mention of this disease dates back to the beginning of the eighteenth century. Whether this disease existed before or a mutation of a simple virus occurred at this time is unknown to science.

Table of contents

1. Genital herpes: causative virus, types, routes of transmission, virus carriage, risk groups, incubation period - video
2. Symptoms of the disease
   • Genital herpes on the labia, on the penis - photo
3. Genital herpes: symptoms in men and women, where herpes occurs - video
4. Genital herpes in children and women during pregnancy (opinion of a dermatovenerologist): what is the danger of genital herpes at various stages of pregnancy, complications, treatment, risks of infection of a newborn - video
5. Treatment
6. Genital herpes: duration of treatment with antiviral drugs, which antiviral drugs are the best in the treatment of genital herpes, the best ointments, interferon drugs (opinion of a dermatovenerologist) - video
7. Treatment of genital herpes (primary and recurrent, virus types 1 and 2): antibiotics, immunomodulators for herpes on the lip and genital herpes, homeopathy, folk remedies (garlic, tea tree) - video
8. Types of genital herpes: symptoms and characteristics of acute and chronic, primary and recurrent genital herpes, complications (herpetic keratitis, etc.), preventive measures, herpes vaccination - video

Genital herpes is an infectious disease caused by herpes simplex viruses types 1 or 2 and manifests itself as multiple blistering rashes in the genital area. It is because of the localization of the lesion in the genital area that genital herpes is also called sexual or genital herpes.

Despite the high prevalence of this infection (according to the World Health Organization, about 90% of the world's population is infected), genital herpes is a fairly safe disease that in the vast majority of cases does not cause serious complications. However, during the period of active course, genital herpes significantly reduces the quality of life and creates inconvenience for a person.

Genital herpes is transmitted from an infected person to a healthy person through any type of sexual contact - vaginal, oral and anal. Moreover, a person can be a source of infection, even if he does not have any manifestations of the disease. In addition, in rare cases, a baby may become infected with genital herpes during childbirth, if the mother's infection at that moment was in an active stage.

General characteristics of the disease

The fact is that the infection is sexually transmitted, but is not life-threatening, and once a person has had genital herpes, he becomes a lifelong carrier of the herpes virus. Occasionally, in an infected person, the herpes virus is activated and released into the secretion of the genital organs, and most often this occurs without any accompanying clinical manifestations. Accordingly, a person does not know that the genital herpes virus is present in the secretions of his genital organs and leads a normal sex life. As a result, during sexual intercourse the virus is transmitted to a partner. Moreover, transmission of the genital herpes virus occurs during any type of sexual contact - vaginal, oral and anal. Thus, many carriers of the genital herpes virus periodically become a source of infection for other people, without even knowing it. Accordingly, the spread of infection occurs very quickly and on a wide scale. But, due to the non-life-threatening nature of genital herpes, they are not actively detecting the infection.

Genital herpes is caused herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 or 2. HSV-1 is the cause of genital herpes in 20% of cases, and HSV-2 - respectively, in 80%. At the same time, the “true” provocateur of genital herpes is traditionally considered to be type 2 virus, since type 1 herpes virus is the cause of herpetic rashes on the lips and face. However, during oral sexual contact, a person infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 can transmit it to a partner in whom the pathogenic microbe will provoke genital herpes, since it was, figuratively speaking, “transferred” to the genitals. In principle, the type of HSV that causes genital herpes is completely unimportant, since the infection proceeds and is treated in exactly the same way. The only category of people for whom it is important to know the type of HSV virus that causes genital herpes are pregnant women, since based on this information they will be able to guess when and how the infection occurred.

The virus that causes genital herpes enters the human body through intact mucous membranes and damaged areas of the skin during sexual intercourse. Therefore, the only effective way to prevent genital herpes infection is to use a male condom for all types of sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral and anal). In addition, in rare cases, genital herpes can be transmitted from mother to newborn or fetus if a woman is first infected during pregnancy.

Once the herpes virus enters the body, it does not always cause an active infection; in at least half of the cases, the person does not get sick at all, but only becomes a latent carrier. Such latent carriage does not cause harm to a person and does not reduce the quality of his life, but occasionally leads to the release of the virus into the secretions of the genital organs, as a result of which it can become a source of infection for other people without knowing it.

But still, in half of the cases, after the virus enters the body, a person develops symptoms of genital herpes, and the infection proceeds actively. In such situations, a person is bothered by multiple small blistering rashes on the skin in the genital area, as well as on the mucous membranes of the genitourinary tract (urethra, vagina, etc.), which are very itchy and very painful. After some time, the blisters pass, and the infection passes into latent carriage, in which the virus is also occasionally released into the secretions of the genital organs without any symptoms and can infect other people during sexual intercourse without using a condom.

With latent carriage, regardless of whether there were active manifestations of genital herpes during the initial infection, so-called relapses can develop in any infected person. During relapses, genital herpes manifests itself with clinical symptoms, that is, a person develops itchy, painful, fluid-filled blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the genitals. Such relapses usually go away on their own, and the person again becomes only a latent carrier of the infection. Relapses of genital herpes are usually caused by a sharp decrease in immunity, for example, under stress, after overwork, serious illness, etc.

The peculiarity of herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2 is that, once they enter the human body, they remain in the tissues for life, never being completely removed. This is what causes asymptomatic lifelong carriage of the virus and occasional relapses of genital herpes. Having entered the body through the mucous membranes, the herpes simplex virus penetrates through the blood and lymph into the nerve nodes, where it remains in a latent inactive state throughout the subsequent life of a person. And when situations arise that cause a decrease in immunity (stress, hormonal imbalance, exposure to radiation, strong ultraviolet irradiation, etc.), the virus is activated, leaves the nerve nodes, penetrates the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs and causes a relapse of the infection.

Attempts to completely remove the herpes simplex virus from the body are futile, so they are not necessary. This means that in the absence of relapses of genital herpes, asymptomatic virus carriers do not need to be treated. Moreover, there is also no need to be afraid of such virus carriage, since it is not dangerous to human life.

Treatment of genital herpes is carried out only in the presence of an active infection, that is, with rashes on the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs. Typically, treatment is aimed at eliminating painful symptoms - pain and itching, as well as at quickly transferring the virus into a latent, inactive state, in which it will not bother a person.

Genital herpes - causes

It is also necessary to know that infection of the genital tract with HSV type 1 often causes an active course of the infection. And when infected with HSV type 2, genital herpes in a large number of cases does not develop, and the virus immediately goes into a latent state. But, as a rule, after the end of the active phase of genital herpes caused by HSV type 1, the virus goes into a latent state for a long time, and a person very rarely suffers from relapses of the infection. If an infection with HSV type 2 occurs, then a person is much more likely to develop relapses of genital herpes, even if after the initial infection clinical symptoms did not appear and the virus immediately went into an inactive state. That is why, to predict relapses, it is important to know the type of herpes virus that a given person is infected with.

Infection with genital herpes

• Sexual tract;
• Vertical path (via

Herpes is an infectious disease caused by the virus of the same name. Once in the body, it is embedded inside cells, causing the normal immune defense to weaken. Under certain circumstances and a sharp decrease in immunity, genital herpes appears, the treatment of which causes difficulties.

Currently, there are 8 types of this virus (HSV) known to exist. The causative agents of the genital form are HSV-2 (80% of cases) and HSV-1.

During the absence of clinical manifestations, virus carriers are not able to infect their partners.

The disease is most often transmitted through sexual contact, both regular and during anal sex. In rare cases, infection occurs through personal hygiene items.

Genital herpes can be contracted from a partner with herpetic rashes in the mouth area, since during oral contact with the genitals the infection spreads from the lips to the genitals.

Risk factors that increase the chance of contracting this disease:

1. Impaired immune function due to illness, stressful situations or medications.
2. Minor damage to the mucous membrane and skin.
3. Simultaneous presence of several sexual partners.
4. Having sex without a condom.

Characteristic symptoms

Symptoms and treatment of genital herpes have their own characteristics. During primary infection with HPV-2, the disease occurs in a latent form in 90% of cases. Therefore, the first episode of herpes is, in fact, a relapse.

It can be triggered by sexual contact, a stressful situation, an infectious disease, hypothermia, alcohol abuse, as well as surgical interventions under general or local anesthesia.

With genital herpes in the fairer sex, the rash is localized:

• near the external opening of the urethra;
• in the vestibule of the vagina and on the labia;
• on the cervix;
• near the anus or in the buttocks area.

In men, during exacerbation of herpes, the rash is located on the skin or mucous membranes:

• scrotum;
• around the anus or on the thighs;
• on the head or foreskin of the penis.

For primary infection with herpes, the incubation period is up to 8 days. Then the following symptoms appear:

• itching, redness and burning in the genital area;
• small blisters filled with cloudy liquid form on the skin or mucous membrane;
• burst blisters transform into small erosions or ulcers covered with a crust;
• itching and tingling sensation during urination;
• when the cervix is ​​affected, the mucous membrane becomes hyperemic, erosive, with purulent discharge;
• the lymph nodes in the groin are enlarged.

Sometimes there is general weakness and malaise. It may take up to 30 days for the symptoms of the disease to completely disappear. Effective treatment of genital herpes shortens this period.

With secondary infection, the disease manifests itself with similar symptoms. Once the virus enters the human body, it turns him into a carrier of the disease. In this case, periods of remission are replaced by exacerbations.

The herpes virus lives in the spinal nerve ganglia, and not on the mucous membranes and skin, so before the appearance of the rash, warning symptoms appear in the form of nagging pain along the nerve ganglia, itching and burning in the area where the rash appears.

Have you noticed unpleasant symptoms, but don’t know which doctor treats genital herpes? If there are signs of this disease, women should contact a gynecologist, and men should contact a urologist or andrologist.

A virus received from a partner does not always lead to rashes; the state of the immune system plays a decisive role in this.

Diagnosis of the disease

Depending on the state of immunity, there are three types of recurrent course of the disease: arrhythmic, monotonous and subsiding.

With atypical genital herpes, its symptoms are disguised as other diseases, and with an asymptomatic course, the disease can only be recognized with the help of special tests.

To correctly diagnose the disease and find out how to cure genital herpes, you need to consult a specialist. In addition to collecting anamnesis, a number of laboratory tests are performed to determine the type of herpes.

For virological research, the contents of the vesicles are taken and placed in a special environment where the pathogen multiplies. This method is not very accurate, so its results are often questioned.

More reliable information is provided by gene diagnostics, which uses the polymerase chain reaction (the presence of viral DNA is determined).

The analysis allows you to identify the pathogen and distinguish it from others. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay is used as an auxiliary method to determine the presence of antibodies to the virus in the patient’s blood.

Treatment of herpes

Many people are interested in the question of how to cure genital herpes forever? Unfortunately, it will not be possible to completely get rid of the disease, since the virus, once it enters the body, remains there. With the help of medications, you can only quickly eliminate the clinical manifestations of the disease and prolong the period of remission.

Drug treatment

Therapy is carried out with tableted medications, as well as ointments for external use.

Effective drugs for the treatment of genital herpes:

• "Acyclovir" ("Acivir", "Zovirax", "Acyclovir-BSM", "Virolex", "Lizavir", "Ciclovax");
• Famciclovir (Valtrex);
• "Penciclovir."

There are two ways to use antiviral drugs - in the form of episodic administration (short course of up to 10 days) and preventive (within a month or two).

More often in medical practice, Acyclovir (in tablets or capsules) and its analogues are used. Adult patients are prescribed a therapeutic dose of the drug in accordance with the instructions. Taking medications early in the course of the disease helps prevent the rash from appearing.

If you start treatment after the bubbles appear, the symptoms will become less severe and healing will occur faster. With frequent relapses of the disease, it is worth taking antiviral drugs for prevention.

How to treat genital herpes with topical products? For this purpose, ointments are used as part of complex therapy for the disease:

• "Acyclovir";
• "Zovirax";
• "Virolex";
• "Fukortsin" (if the skin is affected);
• Oxolinic ointment.

Immunomodulators are prescribed together with antiviral drugs:

• "Amiksin";
• "Polyoxidonium";
• "Lykopid";
• "Interferon".

The listed drugs affect the immune system of patients with genital herpes, stimulating its specific and nonspecific factors. This allows you to block further spread of the virus and reduce the frequency of relapses.

Treatment regimen for the disease

There are certain treatment regimens for genital herpes. The choice of a specific one depends on the type of disease, its duration and the patient’s condition.
Taking medications during primary infection

Treatment of recurrent genital herpes

Treatment of genital herpes in women

Antiviral therapy is not recommended during pregnancy. The exception is severe forms of genital herpes, complicated by other diseases that threaten the patient’s life.

For effective treatment in this situation, human immunoglobulin is used. It is administered intravenously at 25 ml 3 times (every other day) in the first, second and third trimester (two weeks before the expected date of delivery). Viferon may be prescribed in complex therapy.

Folk remedies

In addition to medicinal methods, it is possible to treat genital herpes with folk remedies:

1. Tea tree oil. To use, add 10 drops of oil to 400 ml of boiling water. Use the product to wash the genitals. The procedure should be performed before bedtime.
2. Herbal collection. Mix equal amounts of birch leaves, red clover flowers, calendula, dandelion root and motherwort grass. 10 g of collection pour 350 ml of water. Boil the broth over low heat for 5 minutes. After cooling, it is filtered and used for washing or douching. The procedure is performed once a day before bedtime for two weeks.
3. A series. To relieve itching at the initial stage of herpes, you need to pour 10 grams of dry herbs into 250 ml of boiling water and let it stand for an hour. Strain the infusion, soak a piece of gauze in it and apply to the affected area for 10 minutes. The product can also be taken orally (100 ml twice a day).
4. Chamomile. Has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps relieve pain. 5 grams of dried flowers are poured into 200 ml of boiling water and left for 40 minutes. Strain and use for irrigation of mucous membranes or douching. You can use this infusion 2 times a day.
5. How to treat genital herpes with sea salt: 50 grams of sea salt are dissolved in 10 liters of boiling water and after the product has cooled, it is used to take sitz baths. The procedure is carried out daily (a quarter of an hour for 14 days). There is no need to rinse off the saline solution; just gently blot the external genitalia.
6. Echinacea root. Used to strengthen the immune system. To prepare the product, you need to pour 20 grams of crushed raw materials into 100 ml of 70% alcohol. The tincture is kept for a week in a cool, dark place. Then, filter the product and take 25 drops 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 2 months. It can be repeated if necessary.

What should you not do if you are sick?

If symptoms of the disease appear, there is no need to panic, since long-term remission is possible with proper treatment. You should also abstain from sexual activity until the symptoms of herpes completely disappear. It is not recommended to consume alcohol, which serves as a provoking factor for this disease.

Before visiting a doctor, do not rub the affected areas or touch them with your hands. This contributes to the spread of the virus and the appearance of new rashes. It is strictly prohibited to treat blisters with alcohol, as it is not intended to treat such problems and can cause chemical burns to the mucous membranes or skin.

Many patients are interested in the question: is it possible to cure genital herpes without going to the hospital? The answer is negative. Self-medication will only worsen the condition and cause frequent relapses.

Possible complications

You need to know how to quickly cure genital herpes, since complications may occur if you do not consult a doctor in a timely manner.