Herpes:
Genital herpes is an STD that is caused by HSV. This virus affects the genitals, the cervix, and it can also affect the skin in other parts of the body. Herpes is a chronic condition. Herpes virus is easily human transmissible. The most common mode of transmission is through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Herpes can be caused by having unprotected vaginal or anal sex, having oral sex with a person who gets cold sores, having genital contact with an infected person.
Symptoms and Signs of Herpes:
Treatments for Herpes:
Possible Complications/Health Consequences:
1. This virus can be fatal to new born infants.
2. Herpes can be given to the baby by the mother through delivery.
3. There are also no long term health consequences of having the virus.
Sources:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151739.php
http://www.uhs.uga.edu/sexualhealth/sti/herpes.html
Symptoms and Signs of Herpes:
- Blisters and ulceration on the cervix
- Vaginal discharge
- Pain when urinating
- A temperature
- Malaise (feeling unwell)
- Cold Sores around the mouth
- Red blisters - these are generally painful and they soon burst and leave ulcers on the external genital area, thighs, buttocks and rectum
Treatments for Herpes:
- Pain - paracetamol (Tylenol, acetaminophen) or ibuprofen can be bought without a prescription.
- Some people find that bathing in lightly salted water helps relieve symptoms.
- Ice packs can help. Make sure the ice is wrapped in something - do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply Vaseline (or some kind of petroleum jelly) to the affected area.
- If urinating is painful apply some cream or lotion to the urethra, for example, lidocaine. Some people find that if they urinate while sitting in warm water it is less painful.
- Do not wear tight clothing around the affected area.
- Wash your hands thoroughly, especially if you have touched an affected area.
- Refrain from sexual activity until symptoms have gone.
Possible Complications/Health Consequences:
1. This virus can be fatal to new born infants.
2. Herpes can be given to the baby by the mother through delivery.
3. There are also no long term health consequences of having the virus.
Sources:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151739.php
http://www.uhs.uga.edu/sexualhealth/sti/herpes.html