Genital Herpes - FAQs

Q: Who is the doctor who treats genital herpes infections?

A: A venerologist is the specialist who treats these forms of herpes infections.

Q: Do those with genital herpes experience mental disturbances?

A: Yes they do. They develop negative feelings that include depression, anxiety, fear of discovery, rejection and isolation, suicidal feelings and several more. These reduce with time.

Q: What happens to the virus once it infects the body?

A: Once the virus infects a person it hides in the nerve cells of the body and remains "asleep" or dormant for a period of time. This period of time is known as the “latent period”. The dormant virus can be reactivated at any time. Outbreaks may be seldom or continuous.

A second outbreak can appear weeks or months after the first. It is almost always less severe and shorter than the first outbreak. Over time, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease.

Q: Is there an association between herpes and HIV?

A: Herpes infections can make a person more susceptible to HIV infection. It can also make the symptoms of HIV-infected individuals more aggressive.

Q: Are there any home care tips for genital herpes infections?

A: 

• Do not wear synthetic underwear or pants
• Wear loose-fitting garments, preferably cotton ones
• Cleansing the affected area gently with soap and water is recommended.
• Taking warm baths can help to relieve the pain
• Keep the blisters dry after a bath

Q: What are the complications in babies of affected mothers?

A: These babies may be under-developed. They are at a risk of developing meningitis, encephalitis or chronic skin infection. They may even die.

Q: Does herpes infection affect other organs, besides genitals?

A: In some people, especially in those with impaired immune system such as those with AIDS, those taking cortisone or those undergoing cancer treatment like chemotherapy and radiation, the infection may affect the brain, eyes, esophagus, liver, lungs or the spinal cord.

Q: Are there vaccines against herpes?

A: Not until now. They are still in the experimental stages.