Transcript for:
Lecture on Genital Herpes

- [Narrator] Would you know if you had genital herpes? You might think so. But the truth is many people don't have any idea they have this sexually transmitted infection. Some people don't have any symptoms at all but when symptoms do appear, they can be painful and frustrating. Not to mention highly contagious. So it's important to know what to look for and when to see a doctor. Number one, the main symptom of genital herpes is painful, fluid-filled blisters. They can appear anywhere on your genitals including the penis, scrotum, vagina, anus, or buttocks. You might also see them on your lips and mouth from oral sex. The appearance of these blisters means you're having what is known as a genital herpes outbreak. Your first outbreak could last from two to four weeks while future outbreaks usually last between three to seven days. Number two, during an outbreak, you might feel like you have the flu. Symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and achy muscles, which indicate that your body is trying to fight off the virus. Number three, if the blisters on your genitals break open and start to ooze or bleed, they can turn into ulcers. Ulcers are open sores that are slow to scab over and heal. They can be very painful and sometimes itchy. Number four, you might also start experiencing pain when you urinate. You could find that you struggle to pee or that you suddenly need to pee far too often. Number five, and finally, you might feel tingling, itchiness or burning in your genital region. This can happen during an outbreak but it's also common in lead-up to one. For some people, these sensations are a sign that an outbreak is on its way. Anyone who is sexually active can contract genital herpes and it's more likely to spread if you don't use condoms or other barrier methods during sex. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or know you've been exposed, it's important to get tested and seek treatment. (gentle music)