Female Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a disease which is caused due to the virus called herpes simplex 2 (HSV 2) which passes from one person to another through unprotected sexual activity. Genital herpes is a highly contagious disease which causes uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms. Though men and women both are affected by genital herpes but it is more prevalent in females.
Symptoms of Female Genital Herpes
Many females who are infected with genital herpes shows no obvious signs of the disease but if they do have symptoms then they only appear within 2 to 20 days of infection. The initial symptoms of herpes include a group of signs which are known as prodome and warn an impending outbreak. The signs also include pain, sensitivity a burning at the areas where the blisters are likely to appear. Other symptoms include flu like feeling, pain in buttocks and leg area, swollen glands, vaginal discharge and pressure below the abdomen. At an average a virus takes around 3 weeks to show its first symptoms however in few cases it may also be early.
The first outbreak of female genital herpes is the worst condition where small clusters of blisters called lesions appear around the vaginal area. These lesions over a period of days break into open sores and then scab and heal. Females may also experience pain while urinating and aching muscles during this time.
Identification of Genital Herpes in Female
Female genital herpes may or may not show symptoms and even if they are, they may be mild or severe. Though there are various signs of genital herpes like formation of blisters, vaginal discharge and others but in order to be sure one should always visit their doctor. The doctor will evaluate the symptoms, examine the blisters and will suggest a blood test for confirmation.
Time Frame for Genital Herpes in Female
In most of the cases the symptoms of female genital herpes appear within 2 weeks after getting the infection. The sores caused due to this disease get healed on their own within 2 to 4 weeks. There may be several weeks or months time before the appearance of the next outbreak signs. The next outbreak is usually less painful and less severe and it also last for a shorter period of time as compared to the first one. During the first year of infection, a person may experience 4 to 5 outbreaks which eventually decrease over the years.
Warning for the Females Suffering from Genital Herpes
It is easier for a female suffering from genital herpes to get infected with other sexually transmitted disease as infection can easily enter through open blisters and sores. The genital herpes infection may also pass to an unborn baby through a pregnant mother and may cause serious health complications.
Treatment of Female Genital Herpes
Since herpes is considered as the most stubborn virus thus there is no treatment available for the same as well. Though various medications are available in order to treat its symptoms and freeze its chances of appearing again. In order to prevent the condition of female genital herpes sexual activity should be avoided or use of use of latex condom should be done.