Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is contracted through direct skin contact (not necessarily in the genital area) with an infected person, and less frequently by indirect contact. Few days after you are exposed to the virus, herpes sores usually form around the genital area. The sores usually start as one or more groups of tiny, clear blisters with a red base. When they break open, they form pink or red sores that usually crust over and heal within 2 to 12 days. The virus travels through tiny breaks in the skin (or mucous membranes in the mouth and genital areas), so, healthy skin and mucous membranes are normally an effective barrier to infection. There is no cure for genital herpes. Once you are infected, the virus remains in the body for the rest of your life even if you never experience another outbreak. But your doctor can give you medicine to prevent outbreaks and to help outbreaks clear up more quickly. Learn more about the condition of genital herpes with information on causes, symptoms, history, and treatments.