Genitalherpes

Definition des Genitalherpes

Genital herpes describes an infection of the genitals that can occur in both women and men. Herpes is also popularly known as cold sores because it often occurs in connection with feverish infections.

Causes of genital herpes

Herpes infections are triggered by the herpes simplex viruses type 1 (oral type) and type 2 (genital type), with the infection rate of the population being around 90% for type 1 and around 12-16% for type 2. Transmission occurs during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Risk factors such as stress, sunlight or minor injuries favor the infection. Herpes recurrences are often triggered by hormonal fluctuations such as menstruation, psychological stress, fever or infections.
Changing sex partners and having sex without a condom also increases the risk of contracting genital herpes.

Symptoms of genital herpes

In the case of a herpes infection, small grouped blisters appear on a reddened background in the area of ​​the external genitalia. The blisters usually burst as they progress and form a crusty back. The skin changes can itch, burn and hurt. In addition, there can be painfully enlarged lymph nodes in the groin.

In the case of a first-time herpes infection , inflammation of the glans skin, the urethra or the vulva can also occur. In addition, a general feeling of illness can occur, which is accompanied by back pain and muscle pain . In some cases, autonomic dysfunction occurs with urinary retention, impotence, constipation, and sensory disturbances. Mild herpes meningitis can also occur. Very rarely, herpes encephalitis occurs as a serious complication.

Recurrences are often announced by nerve pain and are accompanied by a general feeling of illness.

Diagnose des Genitalherpes

When diagnosing, the doctor will first ask you a few questions about your symptoms. He will then take a close look at the skin changes. In most cases, the correct diagnosis can be made in this way, and therapy can be started.

If you are unsure, a swab can be taken from the blisters. This is tested in the laboratory for herpes DNA.

Risk of contagion of genital herpes infection

Infection with the herpes virus takes place as a smear infection through direct physical contact, for example during unprotected sexual intercourse. If the sexual partner is infected, the virus can enter the body through even the smallest skin injuries. Transmission can also occur when the infected person has no visible cold sores.

Dauer of Genitalherpes

The infection usually lasts 1-4 weeks until the symptoms have completely resolved. The viruses remain in the nerves for life and can thus lead to the disease flaring up again and again.

You can do that yourself with genital herpes

To avoid infection, condoms should be worn during intercourse. These also protect against other unwanted sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. If the sexual partner is affected by a herpes infection, any sexual contact should be avoided until the infection has healed.

Therapie des Genitalherpes

Antiviral (virostatic) drugs are suitable for therapy. These are taken for about five days and require a prescription. In the case of very severe infections, the antivirals can be given by vein. The earlier the therapy is started, the faster the symptoms will heal.

During therapy, care should be taken to ensure that any sexual partners who are also affected are also treated. Otherwise, a ping-pong effect is to be feared, in which mutual infection occurs again and again.

Genital herpes in pregnancy

Active herpes infection in the mother can be transmitted to the newborn during childbirth. The so-called herpes neonatorum often leads to a herpes infection of the eyes or the oral mucosa of the newborn. In rare cases, herpes encephalitis occurs. For prophylaxis, the pregnant woman can take the antiviral drug aciclovir. In the event of an active infection at birth, a cesarean section should be preferred.

When to seek medical advice

If you discover a new skin abnormality in the genital area, it is definitely worth consulting a doctor. The earlier the right therapy is started, the faster the infection will heal. Other STDs and a fungal infection are associated with similar symptoms and should be ruled out.

A doctor should be consulted immediately in the event of a high fever , headache and behavioral problems . It could be herpes encephalitis.

How can Med-Healths help with genital herpes?

You can contact Med-Healths at any time as soon as you notice skin changes in the genital area. The best way is to send a photo to your doctor via the Med-Healths app. He can write you a prescription for an antiviral drug and tell you how to use it. He will advise you on the treatment and answer your questions about genital herpes. If the findings are not clear, he can also refer you to a specialist for further diagnostics.