Vaginal herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. Also commonly called “herpes”, this disease affects millions of women in the world, including pregnant women. Vaginal herpes is mainly caused by viral infection. To date, no cure has yet been discovered for this condition. The only thing scientists have done so far is to make medications that can treat the symptoms of this disease.
Symptoms of Vaginal Herpes
The symptoms of vaginal herpes are marked by a tingling sensation and itching in the genital area, followed by redness in the skin. After a few days, blisters, skin lesions or skin ulcers may appear. This is usually the case when the individual is suffering from an outbreak of the disease. Once an outbreak happens, the anus and buttocks and other surrounding areas of skin may be affected. During this time, herpes can be highly contagious.
In some instances, the individual suffering from vaginal herpes may not suffer from obvious symptoms. However, the disease can still be passed on to another individual despite the lack of symptoms.
Vaginal discharge, painful urination, urethral discharge, pain during intercourse, muscle aches and constant headaches and enlarged lymph nodes near the groin may also be symptoms of vaginal herpes.
Causes of Vaginal Herpes
Vaginal herpes is commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can be of two types: HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus-1) and HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus-2). This disease is common among women who have a weak immune system due to stress and infections. Women taking certain kinds of medications may also be prone to this illness.
How is Vaginal Herpes Spread?
Vaginal herpes can be spread through sexual intercourse with someone who has an outbreak of the disease. People engaging in oral and anal sex are susceptible to this kind of disease. In very rare instances, the virus causing the problem may be transmitted to another person through contact with certain objects such as tubs or toilet seats.
Typically, the virus is spread during an outbreak or when symptoms are present. However, despite the lack of symptoms, the disease can still be spread.
Treatment for Vaginal Herpes
Currently, there is no ultimate cure to vaginal herpes. However, the illness can be managed with medications. Typically, viral medications are prescribed to address the symptoms of this disease. These medications can reduce the formation of blisters and may also shorten the intensity and duration of outbreaks that may happen in the future.
To help reduce the onset of outbreaks and to prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of the body, it may help to do the following:
- not touching the mouth, eyes, or other parts of the body after touching the blisters or ulcers
- always washing hands thoroughly with soap and water during outbreaks
- using condoms during intercourse or better yet, avoiding sexual contact during an outbreak of the disease
Rina Magallanes - Rina Magallanes is a prolific writer and editor. She had worked in a book publication for several years and have also done online editing ...
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