- The symptoms of genital herpes are usually mild and sometimes go unnoticed for years. Red bumps around or on the genitals or anus that are infrequently itchy or painful are clear signs of genital herpes. This rash may come and go over a period of months. The bumps of the rash may eventually rupture into open sores that begin to bleed and leak clear fluid. An infected individual may also experience a burning sensation during urination.
- Get a diagnosis from a physician if you are concerned that you may have genital herpes. Effective control of genital herpes requires sticking to a course of prescription drugs designed to treat the illness. A doctor will instruct the patient on proper drug usage. In most cases, drugs used to treat the condition will be taken only during an outbreak. In some cases, the drugs may need to be taken daily, even when the virus is in remission.
- The best way to prevent herpes is to always use a prophylactic such as a male condom during sexual intercourse and any other form of sexual contact. Herpes can still be spread even with proper condom use, but it greatly reduces the risk. Honest communication with sexual partners about sexually transmitted diseases can also reduce the chances of transmitting the disease. Some herpes vaccines are currently in trials, but none have been released to the open market. Proper nutrition and exercise can strengthen the immune system and reduce the severity of herpes outbreaks and increase resistance to contracting the virus.
