Genital Herpes

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a common STD (Sexually transmitted disease) that can start as a painful bump or fluid-filled blister in the genital area. Later, the lesion can break open and ooze fluid, leaving a painful and tender sore that will heal over one to two weeks. Herpes can start as a single lesion or group of lesions, and it can occur only once or be a recurring breakout.

What is the cause of genital herpes?

Genital herpes is caused by a virus called HSV, herpes simplex virus, which has the tendency to attack skin. The common skin areas affected by this virus are the oral and genital areas

How is Herpes transmitted?

Herpes virus is usually transmitted by skin to skin contact with someone infected with the herpes virus.

What are the symptoms of someone infected with herpes?

Most individuals infected with herpes do not have any symptoms, and they are usually not even aware of being infected. In other words, it can be a SILENT INFECTION!!!

How do herpes lesions look?

Most individuals infected with herpes do not have any symptoms, and they are usually not even aware of being infected. In other words, it can be a SILENT INFECTION!!!

Herpes usually appears on the skin as a group of blisters on the border of the lips or genital area.

How can herpes be diagnosed?

If you have a new skin lesion, a swab sample can be obtained, and a culture can confirm the diagnosis.

If someone has no lesion but he or she is concerned about a silent infection, then a blood test can reveal a recent or remote infection of the herpes virus by checking the level and type of herpes antibodies in the blood.

Is herpes of the lips and genitalia the same as shingles?

Yes. There are two different types of herpes simplex viruses.

• HSV type 1

  HSV type 1 usually causes oral and lip herpes and rarely is the cause of genital herpes.

• HSV type 2

  HSV type 2 usually causes genital herpes and rarely is the cause of oral and lip herpes.

Is there any difference between herpes of the lips and genital herpes?

No. Although both look like a group of blisters, they are caused by different types of viruses.

What is my risk for other STDs if I’m infected with herpes?

Dr. Shafa recommends that any patient with one STD should be tested for the other common STDs as well. This provides peace of mind for both the patient and the doctor.

We can offer complete STD/STI panel testing!

You can be tested right here in our office for any symptom or concern you may be experiencing to ensure proper treatment for you and your partner. Testing can be as simple as a clinical evaluation by Dr. Shafa, urine/blood analysis, culture, and biopsy.

Certain types of STDs can be treated immediately!

For certain STDs, we can treat you in the office. A single injection or a single pill by mouth can take care of the infection completely.

For certain STDs, we may also offer Expedited Partner Therapy. For this, we may provide prescriptions or medications for you to take home to your partner without Dr. Shafa having to examine him or her.

We have the answer to any of your symptoms or concerns!

If you have any concerns or symptoms regarding possible STDs, call us to make a medical appointment to be evaluated, educated, diagnosed and treated if needed. Feel free to Ask questions or Call us to make an appointment to see Dr. Parvin Shafa.