Thank you for sending your question to AlterHeros.

First off, I think you are asking about the symptoms and signs of herpes as well as the contagion factor. I think you are also concerned about the STBBI test your doctor would like to administer.

Genital herpes is a STI caused by the herpes simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). It’s quite common. 1 out of every 5 adolescents and adults in the United States has herpes. Most people don’t show symptoms but when they occur, herpes looks like one or more blisters around the genitals or rectum that break and leave sores. The sores can take about two-four weeks to heal during your first outbreak. The first outbreak is almost always the worst, and they will get less and less severe. It happens about two weeks after the virus has been passed to you. Sores can also come with fever and swollen glands, similar to flu. Genital herpes is usually only passed when someone has an open sore, but it can also be passed through skin that does not appear to have sores.

During an infection, a doctor can diagnose herpes by examining the sores, or taking a sample. If you do not have a sore, herpes might show up on a blood test, but it isn’t a sure thing. It’s a very simple procedure, often offered for free at sexual health clinics. Herpes can’t be permanently cured but antiviral medication can shorten or prevent outbreaks. Correct and consistent use of condoms will help reduce the risk, but often the sores occur in areas that are not covered by a condom. The only way to prevent giving herpes to someone is to abstain from sex when you have a visible sore. You can’t pass herpes through genital fluid. It can also be another STBBI, such as HPV; the only way to have the answer is to take STBBI tests.

AlterHeros