What should I do about genital herpes?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on May 06, 2025
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Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 infection. Clinically, it is categorized as a sexually transmitted disease and is contracted through sexual contact. Once the disease appears, it cannot be completely eradicated. The virus is carried for life, and may flare up when the immune system is compromised or after consuming spicy and irritating foods. The recurrence interval varies between patients; some may experience a recurrence once a year, while others may experience it monthly. Therefore, after the onset of this disease, it is crucial to seek proper treatment in the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. Antiviral and immune-boosting medications should be taken for an extended period. Additionally, it is important to avoid spicy and irritating foods, exercise regularly to potentially reduce the recurrence of the disease. Furthermore, the disease is highly contagious during an outbreak, and it is essential to avoid sexual contact during this period.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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How long is the incubation period for genital herpes?

The incubation period of genital herpes generally ranges from 2 to 14 days, with an average of 3 to 5 days, meaning that patients might not exhibit any symptoms during the incubation period. After this period, erythema can appear around the external genitalia, followed by the development of papules, vesicles, erosions, ulcers, and crusts, which may be accompanied by pain, burning sensations, and itching. The local lymph nodes may swell, and some patients may experience headaches, fever, and fatigue as systemic symptoms.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What medicine is good for genital herpes?

For topical treatment of genital herpes, clinicians generally use antiviral medications such as acyclovir ointment, penciclovir cream, sodium phosphonoformate ointment, interferon ointment, and so on. If there is a concurrent bacterial infection, ointments like erythromycin, fusidic acid cream, and mupirocin ointment can be used in combination. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine ointments that detoxify and dry dampness, such as borax and zinc oxide menthol ointment, can also be used.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Can genital herpes virus be cured completely?

Genital herpes virus, due to its residual virus, remains latently stored in the sacral ganglia. When the body's resistance decreases or some triggering factors are present, the latent virus can be reactivated and recur. Therefore, genital herpes is difficult to completely cure. Genital herpes virus is a type of chronic, recurrent, hard-to-cure sexually transmitted disease caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 infecting the urogenital and perianal skin and mucous membranes. In the past 30 years, the incidence of this disease has been continuously rising. During treatment, patients need to rest, avoid alcohol, and excessive sexual activity. Sexual activity should be avoided when clinical symptoms occur. If genital herpes becomes active before delivery during pregnancy, a cesarean section should be performed. Treatment involves the use of topical antiviral drugs, and it is also important to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

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Written by Luo Hong
Dermatology Department
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How is genital herpes tested?

Herpes viruses are generally divided into two types, type 1 and type 2 genital herpes, mainly caused by type 2 herpes virus. The best approach for type 2 herpes virus is to use blister fluid for PCR testing of DNA. If testing is not possible, you can also consider blood tests for herpes virus antibodies. If the IGM for type 2 herpes virus is positive, then consider it a current symptomatic infection. If the IGM is negative, but HCG is positive, then consider this herpes as a past infection.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What does it mean when blisters appear on a man's reproductive organ?

Blisters in the male genital area are mostly genital herpes. This is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus type 2 and is clinically a sexually transmitted disease. It is generally contracted through direct sexual contact. Once this disease occurs, it is generally not possible to completely eradicate it, and the virus will be carried for life. During an outbreak, antiviral medications can be used for treatment, such as taking oral acyclovir tablets and applying acyclovir ointment. Recovery generally takes about a week. However, recurrences can occur if immunity decreases or if one consumes spicy and irritating food. Some patients may trigger the disease with every sexual encounter, so it is essential to maintain proper dietary and lifestyle habits. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor)