Genital herpes is described as sores that occur around the penis or in the vagina area. It may also cause sores in the region of the anus. The most common cause of genital herpes is HSV2 (herpes simplex virus type 2). Herpes viruses can be spread by unprotected oral or genital sex and sometimes by kissing. This is why it is strongly advised to always wear a condom to lower your risk of contracting the virus.
Your doctor or STI clinic can take a swab to determine which herpes simplex virus is causing your outbreaks. It is important to note that not every sore appearing in the genital area is caused by herpes. This is why it is important to see your GP or visit STI clinic to have a diagnosis and to be tested for any other STI's. You should not self-treat without getting a medical diagnosis first.

It is common for people with genital herpes to experience recurrent episodes, this occurs when the virus travels through the skin's surface causing an outbreak of ulcers. The recurrent episodes are milder in severity when compared to the initial outbreak. Ulcers may reappear in the same area as the first outbreak, or may appear in other areas. It is also possible to develop lesions around the anal area without having had anal sex.

Aciclovir can be prescribed in other strengths and doses to manage recurrent episodes of genital herpes. It is important to book an appointment with your GP if the treatment is not effective, if you experience side effects or if you develop any new symptoms.

It is best to abstain from sexual contact during a herpes outbreak and whilst taking treatment. During a flare up, a person with genital herpes is infectious and can transmit the virus to sexual partners. Do not have sex until all your sores and blisters have healed and always remember to wear a condom.

At the present time, there is no cure for genital herpes. Treatment with Aciclovir helps manage the symptoms and shorten an outbreak by 1 or 2 days, if treatment is started as soon as the symptoms appear.
Every so often, outbreaks can settle by themselves without treatment. The frequency of outbreaks tend to happen less often overtime. People who experience more than 6 outbreaks in a year may benefit from anti-viral treatment for a duration of 6 to 12 months. If the anti-viral treatment is not helping and you are still getting outbreaks, your GP may refer you to a specialist.

Aciclovir is used to treat herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections of the skin and mucous membranes, including initial and recurrent genital herpes outbreaks. This anti-viral treatment reduces the severity and duration of the sores and decreases further outbreaks.
This treatment should be started as soon as possible, once symptoms of pain or tingling is felt, preferably within the first 24-48 hours. For successful treatment of outbreaks, it is important to complete the 5-day course