How Can You Get Genital Herpes?

If you don’t have genital herpes, the chances are you know someone that does, it is that common. In this article, we will explain how genital herpes is transmitted, what symptoms to look out for in both men and women and how to identify if you might have the condition. We will also answer a range of frequently asked questions about managing and treating the infection so you have all the information you need if you are concerned.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about genital herpes and how you get it:

• Genital herpes is spread primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activities, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

• Common symptoms include pain when urinating, unusual discharge, tingling or itching around the genitals and blisters on the genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks.

• In men, genital herpes often appears as blisters on the penis and scrotum. In women, it typically appears as blisters on the labia or inside the vagina.

• It is possible to contract genital herpes from a partner who shows no visible symptoms, as the virus can still be active on their skin.

• While genital herpes cannot be cured, treatments are available to manage outbreaks and reduce symptoms. Medications available from UK Meds include aciclovir and (Valtrex) valaciclovir.

An overview of genital herpes

Previously we have put together an article about the symptoms of genital herpes which includes all you need to know about the condition, in particular its symptoms. In short, genital herpes is a common condition that is transmitted through sexual contact. When someone is infected with the herpes virus they are typically infected for life, which leads to periods of health as well as recurring outbreaks. It is also possible for someone to be an asymptomatic carrier of genital herpes, meaning they do not show any signs or symptoms but can still pass the virus on. 

How can you get genital herpes?

Genital herpes is spread primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact with the infected area which occurs during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Herpes can be transmitted even when there are no visible sores or blisters through a process known as asymptomatic shedding. You can also contract genital herpes if a cold sore touches your genitals or face, or by sharing sex toys with someone who has herpes (NHS Inform, 2022).

How can I check if I have genital herpes?

To check if you have genital herpes it is important to be aware of the common symptoms of the condition. As previously outlined in a UK Meds article, the NHS states that the most common symptoms of genital herpes include:

• Pain when urinating

• Unusual discharge

• Tingling, burning or itching around the genitals

• Blisters that burst on the genitals, anus, thighs or backside

How does genital herpes look in men?

In men, genital herpes usually appear as small blisters on the scrotum, penis, buttocks, anus or thighs. These blisters can also develop on the lips, tongue and mouth, especially if you have engaged in oral sex. The most common areas for these blisters to appear on a man are the penis and scrotum.

How does genital herpes look in women?

For women, genital herpes typically appears as blisters on the labia or inside of the vagina, however, these blisters can also develop around the buttocks, anus and thighs. 

If you are male or female and notice any unusual blisters or sores then you should consult with your healthcare provider for further advice as soon as possible.

FAQs about how you can get genital herpes

Can you get genital herpes if your sexual partner doesn't have visible symptoms of it?

Yes, you can get genital herpes from a sexual partner even if they do not have any visible symptoms. This occurs when the partner is asymptomatic. They still carry the virus and it is still active on their skin, they just have no noticeable symptoms. The virus can be passed on by direct skin-to-skin contact (NHS Inform, 2022).

Are you more likely to get genital herpes from a sexual partner who has only recently caught the STI themselves?

Yes, you may be more likely to get genital herpes from a sexual partner who has only recently got the virus. This is because the risk of transmission is higher in the first few months after a person catches herpes. Over time the risk of passing on the virus decreases and is much less likely after two years (NHS Inform, 2022).

If you are pregnant, can genital herpes be passed on to your baby?

Yes, in rare cases genital herpes can be passed on to a baby during childbirth. It should be noted that this is very rare. This is mainly a concern if a mother has her first episode of genital herpes after the 26th week of pregnancy. If the mother has had herpes for longer than three months then a normal birth is expected even if there are symptoms present at the time of birth. If you are pregnant and are concerned about genital herpes it is highly recommended that you speak to a healthcare provider for advice (NHS Inform, 2022).

Can my genital herpes be cured?

No, genital herpes cannot be cured. Bacterial STIs including chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be treated and cured using different medications, but this is not the case for herpes. Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cannot be completely eliminated by your body using medication. 

Can my genital herpes be treated?

Despite the condition currently being incurable, treatments are available to manage outbreaks and symptoms and minimise the risk of transmitting the virus to other people. Treatment options include:

• Aciclovir

• Valaciclovir, sold under the brand name Valtrex

For more information about genital herpes treatments, we have previously produced a dedicated article on the topic.

How can a sexual health clinic help me if I think I might have genital herpes?

If you think that you might have genital herpes it is important to visit a doctor or a sexual health clinic. A sexual health clinic can help provide specialised support and care. They are experienced at treating and diagnosing conditions such as genital herpes which means you can get answers quickly. According to the NHS, a sexual health clinic can provide faster test results than a GP practice. In some cases, a GP will even refer you to a sexual health clinic if you visit them first. 

Sources

Genital Herpes Symptoms: Signs & How To Manage It | UK Meds

Genital Herpes - NHS

Genital Herpes | NHS Inform