What are the transmission routes of genital herpes?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on November 15, 2024
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Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 infection, with the primary transmission route being sexual contact. However, some patients can also be infected through contact with contaminated clothing or through activities like bathing, swimming, or staying in hotels, although these methods have a relatively lower chance of transmission.

Once infected with genital herpes, it generally persists for life and cannot be completely eradicated. Antiviral medications such as valacyclovir can be used during outbreaks, and topical acyclovir ointment can be applied locally.

Regular exercise and consuming medications that enhance the immune system can help reduce the recurrence of this disease. If one frequently stays up late or consumes spicy and irritative food, the likelihood of recurrence increases. Moreover, this disease is highly contagious during outbreaks and can be transmitted to others through sexual contact.

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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)

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Is genital herpes incurable forever?

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease characterized by its tendency to recur frequently. It often flares up when the body's resistance is low, during sleep deprivation, fatigue, or after drinking alcohol. Genital herpes is not incurable; it is generally treated with oral antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir. Topical applications, like acyclovir cream or penciclovir gel, can also be used. Recovery generally takes about a week. For those who suffer from frequent recurrences, oral immunomodulatory drugs such as thymopentin or pidotimod can be taken. Additionally, it’s important to exercise, avoid alcohol, and enhance the body's resistance to potentially achieve gradual recovery.

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Can genital herpes in women heal by itself?

Genital herpes has an intermittent onset because herpes cannot be said to be cured and never recurs. The herpes virus congregates at the sacral nerve roots in the human body. Therefore, when immunity is low, the virus travels along the sacral nerve root to the surface of the skin, causing damage in spots, commonly known as a recurrence of herpes. Thus, genital herpes does not heal on its own; it is merely in a quiescent phase of an outbreak. Therefore, genital herpes is generally harder to treat in females than in males because the female body has a cavity, and herpes inside the cavity may not be visible.

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Genital herpes is what kind of situation?

Genital herpes is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus and is classified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). It primarily occurs after sexual contact, although infection can also happen through contact with contaminated towels or bed sheets. Initially, small blisters appear on the external genitalia, accompanied by a burning sensation and pain. Once the disease manifests, it is contagious and can be transmitted to others through sexual contact. It is crucial to seek prompt treatment at a reputable hospital upon discovering this condition. Standard antiviral medications can cure it, but the virus cannot be completely eradicated once contracted. When immunity is low or after consuming spicy and irritating foods, the disease may recur in the genital area and become active again. Therefore, it is essential to avoid sexual contact during an outbreak to prevent repeated cross-infection.

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Can people with genital herpes get married?

Currently, there is no law in the country stating that individuals with genital herpes cannot get married. Therefore, people with genital herpes can marry. However, we strongly advise that patients should inform their prospective spouses about their condition truthfully and clearly, in order to gain their understanding and cooperation and to avoid potential problems in future marital life.