Lecture on Genital Herpes

Introduction

• Many people may not know they have genital herpes.
• Some people show no symptoms, others have painful and frustrating ones.
• Highly contagious condition, so awareness is important.

Key Symptoms

1. Painful, Fluid-Filled Blisters

• Location: Anywhere on the genitals (penis, scrotum, vagina, anus, buttocks); also on lips and mouth from oral sex.
• Indicative of a genital herpes outbreak.
• Duration: First outbreak lasts 2-4 weeks; future outbreaks 3-7 days.

2. Flu-Like Symptoms During Outbreak

• Symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, achy muscles.
• Indicates the body trying to fight off the virus.

3. Development of Ulcers

• When blisters break open, they can ooze or bleed and turn into ulcers.
• Ulcers are painful, slow to scab and heal, and sometimes itchy.

4. Pain During Urination

• Difficulty urinating or sudden frequent urges to pee.

5. Tingling, Itchiness, or Burning Sensations

• These sensations can occur during an outbreak or as a sign an outbreak is imminent.

Prevention and When to Seek Help

• Anyone sexually active is at risk.
• Higher spread risk without condoms or barrier methods.
• Importance of getting tested and seeking treatment if symptoms appear or exposure is known.