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Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is an STI which is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).

STIs are usually passed on between people during sexual contact (although close contact may pass on some infections).

Using condoms reduces the risk of getting a STI.

 

Genital Herpes is passed on through vaginal, anal oral sex and can cause symptoms like blisters in the genital or anal area, pain when urinating and stinging, tingling or itching.

It is always best to go to your local sexual health clinic if you think you have herpes.

The doctor or nurse will look for genital blisters before taking a swab of the affected area.

You will likely be offered antiviral tablets to help reduce the symptoms while the infection is clearing up.

Testing and Treatments:

If you are aged 16 years or over and live in Lancashire (excluding Blackburn with Darwen), you can request a FREE bespoke STI postal testing kit.

We can only diagnose through examination and confirm with a swab from the affected area.

There is no routine test for genital viral infections if you do not have any signs or symptoms.

You maybe be given a supply of anti-viral tablets and also may be offered a cream to apply at home which will help alleviate the pain.

Further Information:

https://www.sexwise.org.uk/