Herpes Genitalis

1. Definition of "herpes genitalis."

1. It can be caused by a herpes virus.

2. It is transmitted by sexual intercourse, kissing, or at birth by an infected vaginal canal.

3. Incubation period is three to seven days.

4. Recurrence may be triggered by stress, fever, systemic illness, trauma, sunlight, etc.

2. Signs and symptoms of herpes genitalis.

1. Fluid-filled vesicles on genitalia followed by encrusting and ulceration.

1. May be found on cervix, vagina, labia, or vulva in the female.

2. May be found on penile shaft, foreskin, or glans penis in the male.

2. Itching.

3. Painful urination.

4. Vaginal or urethral discharge.

5. Fever.

6. Headache.

7. Malaise.

8. Enlargement of inguinal lymph nodes.

9. Mild to severe pain around vesicles.

3. Measures to prevent or control genital herpes.

1. Follow general health measures to prevent infection such as adequate rest, good diet, exercise, and good personal hygiene.

2. Abstain from sexual activity while lesions are present and for ten days after lesions heal.

3. Avoid early sexual activity and multiple sex partners.

4. Join self-help groups or obtain counseling if needed.

5. Have all sexual partners examined and treated.

6. Wash hands carefully to prevent reinfection to another part of the body.

7. Keep lesions dry and clean.

8. Avoid perfumed soaps and bubble baths.

9. Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing.

4. Possible complications of herpes genitalis.

1. Atonic bladder.

2. Impotence.

3. Constipation.

4. Spread of virus to lips, fingers, breasts.

5. Cervical cancer.