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Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Genital Herpes

Care at Home
  1. How is Genital Herpes transmitted?
    • Genital herpes is spread by sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal) or any direct contact with the genitals of a person who has an active herpes infection (initial episode or recurrence).
    • Many people do not know that they have genital herpes. A person can have no symptoms and still transmit the virus. As a result, most cases of transmission occur with neither sexual partner knowing that it is occurring.
    • Oral herpes (fever blisters) also can be spread to the partner's genitals during oral sex.
  2. How long does it usually take for symptoms to appear once one is exposed?
    • The incubation period is 2 days to 2 weeks.
  3. How can I get tested for herpes?
    • Genital herpes can be diagnosed with a specimen taken from a blister or by blood testing.
  4. Is there treatment for genital herpes?
    • First episode - There are antiviral medications that can be used for genital herpes. Medication doesn't cure the disease, but can shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
    • Recurrent episodes - Antiviral medications can reduce and shorten the duration of symptoms. Speak with your physician.
  5. I have genital herpes. How can I protect my sexual partner from getting herpes?
    • Inform your sexual partner that you have herpes.
    • Abstain from sexual activity with uninfected sexual partners whenever you have the herpes sores or feel them coming on.
    • Remember that you can transmit herpes even when you have no symptoms.
    • A latex condom can reduce the chance of transmission, if used correctly and if the condom covers the herpes sores.
  6. STD National Hotline
    • The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention.
    • Toll-free number (English): 1-800-227-8922
    • Toll-free number (Spanish): 1-800-344-7432
    • Visit the website: www.ashastd.org/NSTD/
  7. Pregnancy Test When In Doubt: If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store.
  8. Call your doctor IF:
    • Pregnancy test is positive; or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test.
    • Discharge from penis or unusual vaginal discharge.
  9. IF your symptoms become worse: Review Should I Call? recommendations.
REFERENCES & RESOURCES
  • American Social Health Association
    • "Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases"
    • Visit the website: www.iwannaknow.org
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80.
  • Public Health Agency of Canada
  1. Symptom Description
  2. Should I Call?

Adult Housecalls. Copyright © 2001-2008. David Thompson, M.D.
Reviewed/Modified: Jan. 2008 by Intermountain Healthcare, Inc.


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