Genital Herpes (HSV) Treatment

Genital herpes is an infectious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It occurs in two types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). 

HSV-2 is often linked to genital infection, while HSV-1 is associated with oral herpes and cold sores. Both can affect the genital area through oral, vaginal, or anal sexual activity. HSV-2 is traditionally classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and genital HSV-1 is considered an STI when it spreads through oral–genital contact.

Once the virus enters the body, it remains in nearby nerve cells. This allows the virus to reactivate over time, which causes recurrent outbreaks. Some people have noticeable genital herpes symptoms, while others have very mild signs or none at all. Even without visible sores, it is still possible to spread the virus during sexual activity. 

If you think you may be infected, we can put you in contact with a genital herpes doctor online who can evaluate your symptoms, order lab testing when needed, and recommend treatment options. 

A genital herpes outbreak may look and feel different depending on whether it is your first episode or a recurrent one. Symptoms can appear on the penis, scrotum, vulva, vagina, cervix, anus, buttocks, or thighs.

Common genital herpes symptoms include:

• Clusters of small, painful blisters or open sores in the genital area
• Tingling, itching, or burning sensations before sores appear
• Skin redness or sensitivity
• Painful urination or difficulty urinating
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin 
• Flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and body aches during the first outbreak

When to seek urgent care: If you have severe pain, trouble urinating, eye symptoms, or feel very unwell, seek immediate in-person medical attention.

First-time outbreaks tend to last longer and may be more intense. Recurrent outbreaks usually heal faster and involve fewer lesions. A weakened immune system, stress, illness, and friction during sexual activity can increase the risk of flare-ups.

Herpes outbreak symptoms vary widely, but fast treatment can shorten their duration and make them easier to manage. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by HSV, our online doctor can guide you and help determine whether testing or treatment for outbreaks is appropriate.

Genital herpes spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, most often during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Many people do not realize they are contagious because the virus can shed even without visible sores. This silent shedding is one reason herpes infections remain widespread.

Here is how HSV spreads the virus:

• Contact with a blister, sore, or affected skin area
• Sexual activity that involves genital, anal, or oral contact
• Touching a sore and then touching another part of the body (though this is less common)

HSV enters small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. After the first outbreak, the virus becomes dormant in nearby nerves and may reactivate later. People with frequent recurrent outbreaks may have an increased risk of transmitting HSV to partners. 

People with genital HSV-2 also have a higher risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV during sexual activity because herpes sores and inflammation make it easier for HIV to enter the body.

Understanding how genital herpes spreads helps you prevent outbreaks and protect others. Your online doctor can recommend strategies to reduce the risk of passing HSV to a partner and guide you on the most effective prevention options.

A healthcare provider can diagnose genital herpes by reviewing symptoms, your medical history, and the pattern of outbreaks. When additional testing is needed, these options may be used:

• PCR swab of a sore: Detects HSV and determines whether it is HSV-1 or HSV-2 
• Blood test: Helps identify past exposure to HSV, useful when sores are not present
• Visual evaluation: A provider may diagnose based on appearance and symptom description

During an online visit, your provider will decide if you should start treatment right away or complete testing first. For new or unclear symptoms, you may be referred to a partner lab for a swab or blood test, then receive herpes prescription treatment once results are available.

Accurate diagnosis ensures you receive the right herpes medication and understand how to treat outbreaks effectively so you can safeguard your sexual health.

There is no permanent cure for HSV, but antiviral medication for herpes can dramatically reduce symptoms, shorten healing time, and lower transmission risk. Getting genital herpes treatment online through 24hrdoc is fast and affordable. Once your online doctor reviews your symptoms, a herpes prescription can be sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.

Common antiviral medicines used to treat genital herpes include:

• Valacyclovir
• Acyclovir
• Famciclovir

These antiviral medicines work by slowing viral replication and reducing the number and severity of herpes outbreaks. The best option to treat herpes effectively depends on how often you have symptoms and what works best for your lifestyle. Pregnant patients who have genital herpes should inform their healthcare provider. 

Episodic treatment for outbreaks

This short course of antiviral medication is taken at the first sign of a genital herpes outbreak. Beginning treatment early helps shorten healing time and control herpes outbreak symptoms. This is a good choice if your outbreaks are infrequent.

Daily suppressive therapy

Suppressive therapy involves taking antiviral treatment every day. It is recommended for people with frequent recurrent outbreaks or for those who want to reduce the risk of transmitting HSV to a partner through sexual activity. Daily prescription treatment can reduce outbreak frequency by 70-80% and significantly lower viral shedding.

Online genital herpes treatment gives you reliable medical support and a clear plan to manage symptoms and protect your partners. After your evaluation, your online doctor can send a valacyclovir prescription or another antiviral treatment to your local pharmacy for fast pickup.

There is no permanent cure for HSV, but antiviral medication for herpes can dramatically reduce symptoms, shorten healing time, and lower transmission risk. Getting genital herpes treatment online through 24hrdoc is fast and affordable. Once your online doctor reviews your symptoms, a herpes prescription can be sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.

You can reduce herpes outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission by making a few practical changes and following your treatment plan.

Ways to protect yourself and your partner:

• Use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity
• Avoid sexual contact when a sore is present or when early warning symptoms begin
• tart antiviral treatment as soon as an outbreak begins
• Consider daily suppressive therapy if you have frequent flare-ups or want to reduce the risk of transmitting HSV
• Strengthen your immune response by managing stress and getting adequate rest
• Encourage sexual partners to get tested if exposure is possible
• Partners can receive their own herpes testing and medication online through an affordable virtual visit with a 24hrdoc provider

Actions that prevent outbreaks also help minimize viral shedding, which decreases the likelihood of spreading the infection. Your provider can help you choose the most effective prevention method based on your history and level of risk.