Genital Herpes

General Health

Genital herpes doesn’t define you. At SwiftMedi, we offer fast access to effective antiviral treatments that shorten outbreaks, ease pain, and help you stay in control. With the right care, you can manage flare-ups confidently and live life on your terms.

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About Genital Herpes

Overview


Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), leading to painful blisters, sores, itching, and discomfort in the genital area. For many, it’s not just the physical symptoms that cause distress — the stigma and anxiety around herpes can take a toll on confidence, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

But you are far from alone. Millions of people live with genital herpes, and with the right treatment, flare-ups can be managed effectively. Antiviral medicines can shorten the duration of outbreaks, reduce pain, and lower the risk of passing the virus to a partner. Suppressive treatments can also help prevent frequent recurrences, giving you back control and peace of mind.

At SwiftMedi, our UK-registered prescribers offer discreet, judgement-free consultations and prescribe clinically proven treatments delivered quickly and confidentially to your door.


Symptoms


Symptoms vary from person to person, and some people may not experience obvious signs until a flare-up occurs.

Common symptoms include:

  • Painful red blisters or sores around the genitals, anus, or thighs
  • Tingling, itching, or burning sensations before an outbreak
  • Pain while urinating
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
  • Flu-like symptoms (fever, aches) during the first outbreak


Recurring outbreaks are usually less severe than the first but can still cause discomfort.


Diagnosis


Genital herpes is usually diagnosed by:

  • A physical examination of symptoms by a clinician
  • A swab test of the sores (if needed)
  • In some cases, a blood test may be used to confirm HSV infection


At SwiftMedi, if you have already been diagnosed with herpes, we can provide treatment for managing outbreaks through our secure online consultation.


Treatments


While there is no permanent cure for herpes, effective treatments are available to control symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

Antiviral tablets (e.g., aciclovir, valaciclovir, famciclovir) can:

  • Shorten the duration of an outbreak
  • Ease pain and discomfort
  • Help blisters heal faster
  • Reduce the chance of passing herpes to a partner


Suppressive therapy (daily low-dose antivirals) may be recommended for people with frequent outbreaks.

Self-care tips:

  • Keep the area clean and dry
  • Wear loose clothing to reduce irritation
  • Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
  • Use condoms between outbreaks to reduce transmission risk



Prevention


You can reduce the risk of transmission or future outbreaks by:

  • Using condoms or dental dams during sex
  • Avoiding sex during outbreaks
  • Taking prescribed suppressive therapy if you have frequent flare-ups
  • Managing stress, getting enough rest, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle (as stress and illness can trigger recurrences)



Misconceptions


“Only people with lots of sexual partners get herpes.”
False — anyone who is sexually active can contract herpes.

“Herpes only flares up if you’re unwell.”
Not true — while stress or illness can trigger outbreaks, they can also occur without warning.

“You can’t have a normal sex life with herpes.”
Incorrect — with the right treatment and precautions, people with herpes can have safe, healthy relationships.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is genital herpes and what causes it?

    Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2. It spreads through close skin contact and often begins with tingling before blisters appear. Many people do not realise they have it because early symptoms can be mild or missed.

  • What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

    Symptoms include tingling, soreness, small painful blisters, and sometimes flu-like feelings, especially during a first outbreak. Some people get swelling or pain when passing urine. Recurrences are usually milder. Recognising early signs helps you start antiviral treatment sooner.

  • How is genital herpes treated?

    Treatment focuses on easing symptoms and shortening outbreaks. Antiviral tablets such as aciclovir or valaciclovir work best when started early. They help reduce pain, speed healing, and lower the chance of passing the virus on. Your prescriber will advise the right treatment for you.

  • How long does a genital herpes outbreak last?

    A first outbreak may last 2 to 4 weeks, while later outbreaks usually settle within 5 to 10 days. Starting antiviral tablets early can shorten the duration and make symptoms easier to manage. Healing is quicker once your body recognises the virus.

  • Is genital herpes contagious and when is it most infectious?

    Yes. Genital herpes spreads easily during an outbreak when blisters are present, but it can also pass on through viral shedding even without symptoms. It is most infectious from the tingling stage until the skin fully heals. Condoms reduce risk but do not remove it.

  • Can genital herpes come back after treatment?

    Yes. The virus stays in the body and may reactivate, especially in the first year. Recurrences are usually shorter and less painful. Antiviral tablets taken when symptoms begin can reduce how often outbreaks happen and help them heal more quickly.

  • How do I know if I need suppressive treatment for genital herpes?

    Suppressive treatment is considered if you have frequent outbreaks, severe symptoms, or emotional distress linked to recurrences. Daily antiviral tablets can reduce flare-ups and lower the risk of transmission to partners. Your prescriber can help decide if this approach suits your situation.

  • What triggers genital herpes outbreaks and how can I prevent them?

    Common triggers include stress, tiredness, illness, friction during sex, and changes in your immune system. Keeping well rested, using lubricant, and managing stress can reduce recurrences. Starting treatment as soon as tingling begins may shorten or prevent a full outbreak.

  • Can I have sex during a genital herpes outbreak?

    It is best to avoid sex during an outbreak because this is when the virus is most infectious. Even with condoms, transmission risk is high. Wait until the skin has completely healed before resuming sexual activity to reduce the chance of passing the virus on.

  • Is genital herpes dangerous in pregnancy?

    Genital herpes is usually manageable in pregnancy, but outbreaks near delivery can pose risks to the baby. Antiviral treatment may be recommended to reduce recurrences. Always tell your midwife or doctor if you have had herpes before or notice new symptoms.

  • What should I do if my first outbreak is very painful?

    First outbreaks can be severe. Use warm baths, loose clothing, and pain relief alongside antiviral tablets. If passing urine is painful, pouring warm water over the area can help.Seek medical advice if pain is intense or you cannot urinate comfortably.

  • What is the difference between genital herpes and cold sores?

    Both are caused by the herpes simplex virus but appear in different areas. Cold sores usually affect the lips, while genital herpes affects the genital region. Either virus type can appear in either area. Treatment for both involves antiviral medicines when needed.

  • Can stress or illness make genital herpes worse?

    Yes. Stress, poor sleep, or illness can weaken the immune system and make flare-ups more likely. Building healthy routines and recognising early signs gives you a chance to start antiviral treatment quickly, which may shorten the outbreak.

  • Is there a cure for genital herpes or only treatment?

    There is no cure, but treatment is highly effective at managing outbreaks. Antiviral tablets reduce symptoms, speed healing, and lower the risk of spreading the virus. Many people find their recurrences become milder and less frequent over time.

  • How quickly do antiviral tablets work for genital herpes?

    Antivirals like aciclovir and valaciclovir work best when started early. Many people notice easing of pain within a couple of days, with full healing taking a little longer. Acting at the tingling stage often gives the best results.