Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the commonest cause of genital herpes, however HSV-1 can also cause herpes on the penis, vagina, or anus. Oral-genital contact with an oral herpes carrier causes this. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 13% of adults between the ages of 15 and 49 have genital herpes. It affects women nearly twice as frequently as it does males. The virus remains in your neurons after infection and has the potential to reawaken at any point in your lifetime.

 How can I prevent infecting someone with genital herpes? Steer clear of sexual activity: This is the best approach to stop genital herpes from spreading. If you decide to engage in sexual activity, use a latex barrier during the encounter, such as a condom or dental dam. By taking these preventative measures, you also lessen your chance of contracting HIV, which is three times more likely to infect an individual with HSV-2. Even in the absence of an epidemic, the virus can still spread through your body. We refer to this as "shedding." It is advised to avoid sexual activity when there is an outbreak because your body releases more viruses during that period. Taking an antiviral medication on a regular basis can help you avoid infecting your sexual partner with genital herpes if they don't already have it, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Genital herpes cannot be cured, however an active infection can be managed with a brief course of antiviral therapy. Prescription herpes medication can lessen the intensity of your symptoms, decrease the duration of your outbreak, and lessen your chance of transmitting the herpes simplex virus when used at the beginning of an outbreak. Additionally, you may be eligible for daily antiviral treatment, which can help prevent herpes outbreaks, if you have more than six genital herpes outbreaks annually.

Because the reactivation of a virus is the source of recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes, maintaining your immune system can help avoid outbreaks. Maintaining a nutritious diet, managing your stress levels, getting the required amounts of sleep and exercise, and eating well can all assist your body fight off illnesses, including HSV-2.

An oral antiviral drug such as valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), or acyclovir (Zovirax) may be prescribed by your physician. Whether you wish to stop future outbreaks or you have an ongoing outbreak will determine how long your therapy will take. Medication for genital herpes is most effective when used within three days after the onset of symptoms. Note that this information is meant merely as a general guide. To decide which (if any) genital herpes treatments are medically necessary, your physician will go over your symptoms and medical history.

At this time, Optum Clinic Clinic does not accept health insurance for visits. You can submit a claim to your insurance provider for reimbursement, but we can’t guarantee they’ll reimburse you. If you typically pay for your prescription drugs with insurance, you can do the same with those that are prescribed by Optum Clinic. The cost of medication isn’t included in the cost of your visit.

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