Symptoms of Female Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus. The CDC estimates that 45 million people in the U.S. carry this virus. Of this number, more women are affected than men. The virus can exist in the body without any obvious signs or symptoms, which contributes to the spread of the virus.

Identification

Early symptoms of female genital herpes may include any of the following: fever, chills, body aches, swollen glands, vaginal discharge, pain, itching or burning in the genital area.

Effects

Later symptoms are more easily identified as signs of female genital herpes. The later symptoms include bumps or blisters that tend to become open sores.

Warning

It may take up to two weeks after the initial infection for an outbreak of blisters or sores to occur. The herpes virus can be transmitted in the absence of symptoms.

Prevention/Solution

The only sure way to not contract genital herpes is to abstain from all sexual contact. Safe sex practices and monogamy can reduce the risk of being infected.

Considerations

Any woman displaying symptoms of female genital herpes or participating in risky sexual behavior should seek medical attention immediately if she suspects she could be pregnant---the baby may be at risk for contracting the virus. Herpes virus infection can have serious health implications for babies.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Women's Health