Overview
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), primarily HSV-2, though HSV-1 can also be involved. It causes recurrent painful sores or blisters in the genital area. While the infection is chronic and currently incurable, antiviral treatments in South Korea effectively reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and lower transmission risk.
What is Genital Herpes?
Genital herpes is a viral infection affecting the genital and anal regions. After initial infection, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks. Transmission occurs through sexual contact, even when sores are not visible.
Symptoms
- Painful blisters or sores on the penis, vulva, vagina, buttocks, or anus
- Itching or burning sensation before sores appear
- Painful urination
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Flu-like symptoms during initial outbreak (fever, headache, muscle aches)
- Recurrent mild outbreaks after the first infection
Causes
- Infection with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2)
- Sexual contact with an infected partner
- Skin-to-skin contact with active herpes lesions
Risk Factors
- Unprotected sexual activity
- Multiple sexual partners
- History of other STIs
- Weakened immune system
- Early sexual activity or adolescent sexual exposure
Complications
- Severe infection in newborns if mother is infected during delivery (neonatal herpes)
- Increased susceptibility to HIV infection
- Recurrent outbreaks causing physical and emotional distress
- Urinary retention due to nerve involvement in severe cases
Prevention
- Use condoms consistently during sexual activity
- Avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks
- Inform sexual partners about HSV infection
- Regular STI screening for sexually active individuals
- Consider antiviral prophylaxis for partners of infected individuals
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea provides comprehensive management for genital herpes through antiviral therapy, supportive care, and counseling:
- Diagnosis
- Physical examination and history
- Swab testing of lesions for HSV
- Blood tests to detect HSV antibodies
- Medications
- Oral antivirals: Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir
- Topical antiviral creams for localized outbreaks
- Suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences
- Lifestyle and Home Care
- Keep affected areas clean and dry
- Avoid sexual activity during outbreaks
- Pain relief with analgesics or sitz baths
- Specialist Care
- Available in major hospitals such as Severance Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, and Asan Medical Center
- Counseling for psychosocial support and prevention strategies
- Follow-Up
- Regular follow-ups for recurrent cases
- Monitoring response to antiviral therapy
- Education on safe sexual practices and partner management
