Genital herpes is an infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which is common in men with a prevalence of approximately 8.2% among individuals aged 14 to 49 years. 

The virus is transmitted through sexual contact, and although condom use can reduce the risk, there is no guarantee that a partner will not become infected. Transmission can also occur in individuals who do not show symptoms.

Symptoms of genital herpes that are often experienced include the appearance of sores or blisters in the genital area, itching or pain, and problems when urinating. Therefore, it is important to recognize these signs so that you can immediately get the right treatment. 

Let's look at further reviews regarding symptoms and treatment steps in the explanation below.

Genital Herpes Symptoms

Symptoms of genital herpes usually appear after a person is infected with the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Although these symptoms tend to be quite severe, many sufferers are not aware that the infection exists, so it is important to recognize the signs that appear.

In men, some commonly found symptoms include:

• Itching in the genital area, especially around the penis and scrotum.
• Pain and swelling in the genital area and groin.
• Flu-like symptoms, such as body aches and fever.

Meanwhile, in women, symptoms of genital herpes can include:

• Excessive tiredness after physical activity.
• The appearance of symptoms of other medical illnesses that may worsen the condition.
• Sexual intercourse, whether oral, vaginal or anal, can trigger symptoms.
• Hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle.
• Surgical processes or operations that can affect the immune system.
• Experiences of trauma or stress that can trigger viral reactivation.

Watch the explanation about “Pregnant Women Suffering from Genital Herpes? | Get to Know the Risk Factors for Genital Herpes” in the video below

Causes of Genital Herpes

The cause of Genital Herpes is the highly contagious herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus can pass from one person to another through direct contact. There are two types of this virus, namely HSV type 1 and type 2. 

The HSV type 1 virus generally causes sores or abrasions in the area around the mouth and can spread to the genital area through contact during oral sex. Meanwhile, HSV type 2 is the main cause of genital herpes, which is transmitted through sexual contact, whether vaginal, anal or oral.

One aspect that is often poorly understood is that genital herpes can be transmitted even if the sufferer does not show symptoms. This means that someone who appears healthy and does not have open wounds is still at risk of transmitting the virus to their sexual partners. Therefore, it is important for couples to share information about their sexual health with each other.

Additionally, genital herpes can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth, which can lead to neonatal herpes, a potentially serious condition for the newborn baby. 

However, herpes cannot be transmitted through indirect contact, such as toilet seats, beds, or swimming pools. This means that the risk of transmission can be minimized with awareness and appropriate precautions.

Read Also: 5 Causes of Genital Itching and How to Treat Them

Genital Herpes Risk Factors 

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), and understanding the risk factors for genital herpes is essential for the prevention and management of this disease. 

Some risk factors for genital herpes that need to be considered include:

1. Women are More Easily Infected with Herpes than Men

This is caused by a woman's anatomical structure being more susceptible to virus penetration during sexual intercourse. Therefore, women should be more vigilant and take appropriate preventive measures.

2. More than One Sexual Partner

Every time someone changes partners, they risk exposure to the virus from a new partner. Therefore, maintaining fidelity in the relationship or ensuring that partners undergo regular health check-ups are important steps to reduce this risk.

3. Intimate Relations Without Protection

Using condoms can significantly reduce the chance of transmitting the virus, although it does not completely eliminate it. Education regarding the importance of safe sexual practices must continue to be strengthened among the community.

4. Weak Immune System

Individuals with certain health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or who are undergoing immunosuppressive treatment, should be more careful and have regular health checks.

Read Also: Here are the 4 most common venereal diseases that attack women and how to treat them

Complications of Genital Herpes 

Some complications of genital herpes that can occur include:

1. Other Sexually Transmitted Infections

HSV-2 infection can increase the risk of contracting HIV infection by around three times. In addition, people with HIV and HSV-2 have a greater potential to transmit HIV to other people. HSV-2 infection is one of the most common infections in HIV sufferers. This shows the importance of early detection and appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of transmission.

2. More Severe Disease

In immunocompromised people, including those with advanced HIV infection, genital herpes can cause more severe symptoms and more frequent recurrences. 

Rare complications of HSV-2 include meningoencephalitis and disseminated infection. In rare cases, HSV-1 infection can cause more severe complications, such as encephalitis or keratitis. Therefore, careful management and close medical monitoring are necessary.

3. Neonatal Herpes

Neonatal herpes is a condition when a baby is exposed to the HSV virus during the birth process. The condition is rare, but neonatal herpes is a serious condition that can cause lasting neurological disability or death. 

The risk of neonatal herpes is highest when a mother contracts HSV for the first time late in pregnancy. Therefore, it is very important for pregnant women to receive adequate screening and treatment.

4. Other Complications

Genital herpes can also cause complications in the form of inflammation in the genital area, as well as bladder problems. Symptoms such as pain when urinating or prolonged discomfort can interfere with the sufferer's quality of life.

Therefore, a good understanding of genital herpes and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent serious complications and improve overall sexual health.

Read Also: Following are the signs of syphilis and how to prevent it

How to Treat Genital Herpes

Treatment of genital herpes generally involves the use of antiviral drugs aimed at:

• Accelerates the wound healing process when signs and symptoms first appear.
• Reduces the severity and duration of symptoms.
• Reduces the frequency of disease recurrence.
• Minimizes the risk of transmitting the virus to other individuals.

For pregnant women, doctors can prescribe antiviral drugs towards the end of pregnancy to prevent transmission of the virus to the baby. In some situations, a doctor may recommend a caesarean section for delivery to protect the baby's health.

In addition to medical treatment, there are several steps you can take to relieve the symptoms of genital herpes that can cause discomfort:

• Cleanliness: Make sure the area affected by herpes is always clean by washing it with plain water or a saline solution, to prevent secondary infections.
• Compress It: Apply an ice pack to the painful area to reduce pain and discomfort.
• Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relieve itching and provide comfort to the wound.
• Moisturizer: Use petroleum jelly or pain relief cream to reduce irritation in the affected area.

Genital herpes can recur, so it is important for sufferers to take appropriate preventive steps. To prevent recurrence of symptoms, sufferers are advised to avoid trigger factors that can trigger attacks. Symptoms such as pain and burning sensation when urinating, swelling in certain areas, and feeling tired quickly during activities, must be taken seriously.

Therefore, sufferers are advised to consult with medical personnel to obtain appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

References:

https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/herpes-genital-herpes-simplex

https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/video/herpes-genital 

https://www.alodokter.com/herpes-genital

https://bocahindonesia.com/herpes-kelamin/

https://ciputrahospital.com/kenali-gejala-herpes-genital/