Medication
Acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir appear equally effective for episodic treatment of genital herpes ( 466 – 470 ). Recommended Regimens for Episodic Therapy for Recurrent HSV-2 Genital Herpes* Acyclovir 800 mg orally 2 times/day for 5 days OR Acyclovir 800 mg orally 3 times/day for 2 days OR Famciclovir 1 gm orally 2 times/day for 1 day OR
Self-care
There's no cure for genital herpes. Treatment with prescription antiviral medications may: Help sores heal sooner during an initial outbreak; Lessen the severity and duration of symptoms in recurrent outbreaks; Reduce the frequency of recurrence; Minimize the chance of transmitting the herpes virus to another; Antiviral medications used for genital herpes include: Acyclovir (Zovirax)
What is the best treatment for genital herpes?
There are three major drugs commonly used to treat genital herpes symptoms: acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex). These are all taken in pill form. Severe cases may be treated with the intravenous (IV) drug acyclovir.30 Aug 2020
How long do herpes last on genital?
If sores are on the genitals, a stinging or burning feeling while urinating is common. The first outbreak of genital herpes may last 2–4 weeks. During this time, the sores break open and release fluid. Over a period of days, the sores become crusted and then heal without leaving scars.
What happens if genital herpes is left untreated?
Genital herpes can lead to complications, especially the first time you have it. The possible complications include vaginal yeast infections (“thrush”), bladder problems with trouble urinating, and – in rare cases – meningitis. Complications are very rare in later outbreaks.27 Jun 2018
Does genital herpes go away?
Genital Herpes Overview While there is no cure for herpes, the severity of the virus varies over the course of an infected person's lifetime. In fact, some people with the disease do not experience any symptoms for extended periods. They may still shed the virus, though, even when no symptoms are present.
What are the first signs of herpes 1?
SymptomsPain or itching. You may experience pain and tenderness in your genital area until the infection clears.Small red bumps or tiny white blisters. These may appear a few days to a few weeks after infection.Ulcers. These may form when blisters rupture and ooze or bleed. ... Scabs.13 Oct 2020
What causes herpes?
Herpes infections are caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2. These viruses are contagious and transmitted from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact. Kissing or touching is the main cause of HSV-1 transmission, and sexual contact is the main cause of HSV-2 transmission.8 Sept 2021
What are the signs of herpes on a woman?
The first signs may include:Itching, tingling, or burning feeling in the vaginal or anal area.Flu-like symptoms, including fever.Swollen glands.Pain in the legs, buttocks, or vaginal area.A change in vaginal discharge.Headache.Painful or difficult urination.A feeling of pressure in the area below the stomach.
What triggers genital herpes outbreaks?
Triggers for recurrence — Illness, stress, sunlight, and fatigue can trigger recurrent herpes outbreaks. In women, menstrual periods may trigger an outbreak. When did I become infected? — The first time a person has noticeable signs or symptoms of herpes may not be the initial episode.28 Jun 2021
How can you avoid genital herpes?
How can I prevent genital herpes?Use condoms. Condoms are the best way to prevent STIs when you have sex. ... Get tested. Be sure you and your partner are tested for STIs. ... Be monogamous. ... Limit your number of sex partners. ... Do not douche. ... Do not abuse alcohol or drugs.30 Jan 2019
What happens if you have herpes?
During the first outbreak (called primary herpes), you may experience flu-like symptoms. These include body aches, fever, and headache. Many people who have a herpes infection will have outbreaks of sores and symptoms from time to time. Symptoms are usually less severe than the primary outbreak.13 Apr 2020