What is Genital Herpes - By: Jennifer Anderson

The herpes that affects the genital area is caused by a virus that is transmitted mainly through sexual contact, but can also spread through other bodily fluids. Most commonly, a person gets infected through sexual contact with another person who is suffering an outbreak of herpes at the time of intercourse (having sores, ulcers or blisters). In such case is when the virus is most contagious. Genital herpes can also spread by sexual contact with a person who has the virus but is not experiencing an outbreak at that time. Absence of sores, ulcers or blisters is no secure indication of absence of genital herpes.

To infect another person, the herpes simplex virus (HSV1 and HSV2) must enter the body of another person through the mucous membranes, through any wound - no matter how small, or opening in the skin. Under opening in the skin is mean through the mouth, eyes or genitals. The virus may be present in body fluids (like semen, saliva or vaginal fluid) or in fluids from the wounds caused by herpes. The risk is much higher when a person comes in direct contact with the sores of an outbreak of herpes.

When the virus comes into contact with the mucosal surface or wound, it begins to replicate. This virus is transmitted through nerve cells, where it remains inactive (latent) for some time. When the virus is latent, it is not transmitted. However, at any time, it begins to replicate again without external symptoms. During this period, the virus returns to be contagious through bodily fluids and can infect other people (although no sign of it can be perceived). This stage is particularly dangerous because it is a stage where no visible symptoms can be detected, but the virus is highly contagious. Approximately one third of HV2 infections occur during this time.

Some people may have no symptoms, but can still transmit herpes! Sometimes they suffer only mild pain that can become confused with an insect bite or other skin problems. Sufferers from herpes should seek medical advice and treatment as soon as possible. Genital herpes is curable, and provokes no permanent damage if treated properly.

About the Author

Jennifer Anderson works for the group Your STD Help which helps people learn about their herpes symptoms and how to manage them. If your curious if the bumps or blisters you have might be herpes, feel free to take a look at these Pictures of herpes to compare them.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Jennifer-Anderson/63828

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