Genital herpes refers to a medical condition in which the herpes virus is transmitted sexually leading to blisters like cold sores, on the genital areas. Genital virus usually manifests itself in the form of pain in the muscles of the affected area accompanied by the appearance of blisters, an urge to scratch the affected area often accompanied with a burning sensation, vaginal or penal discharge as well as other symptoms such as headache, exhaustion and fever. The virus is usually transmitted due to sexual or oral contact but it can also be transmitted if you have touched the blisters and not taken adequate hygiene and sanitizing steps before and after the contact. Since the virus can stay dormant in the system for a long period, it is not necessary for it to be in its active state to be transmitted thus one has to be very careful if one suspects a herpes viral infection or if one has already had an outbreak before. Once infected, the virus stays in your system forever though it may lie dormant for long periods. The virus infects the nerves and thus the tissues surrounding the affected nerve exhibit the symptoms. In genital herpes, the tissues around the penis, scrotum, buttocks, anus and thigh are most commonly affected.
Being a sexually transmitted disease, the first steps towards prevention and treatment of the infection involve practicing safe sex and strict hygiene. You should avoid sexual contact with somebody who has had an outbreak and always use latex or vinyl condoms during intercourse between the outbreaks. It is important to avoid wearing tight underwear or pants if you are suffering from genital herpes and also avoid sharing clothes and towels with other people. If possible you should also wash your belongings separately since the virus can shed at any time and transfer to other clothes. This is also the reason why it is recommended to shower during an outbreak and avoid taking a bath. Apart from this you can resort to some simple home remedies to treat the blisters. Application of baking soda or corn starch directly on the blisters can help to keep the blisters dry and heal them faster. It is important not to dip the cotton ball used for application into the baking soda again in order not to contaminate the unused baking soda. Application of used tea bags on the blisters is also beneficial since the tannin acid in the tea helps to treat the viral infection. For instant relief from the pain and itching you can apply an icepack on the affected area. Alternately you can wipe the area with a cotton ball dipped in some cold milk. This will help to reduce the pain and burning sensation.
answered by M W