Herpes in the intimate area as manifested. Genital herpes: features of manifestation in men and women, treatment. Manifestations of genital herpes in women

How herpes manifests itself in men, what are the treatment and prevention of this disease - we will try to answer these and many other questions in this article.

1. Complications.

Where is this disease going?

This disease is dangerous, first of all, for its complications. At some points, the disease can spread throughout the body, causing disturbances in the functioning of the prostate gland. In particular, the genital herpes virus can cause prostate cancer.

Serious complications on the nervous system are also possible. Complications in the central nervous system are manifested in the form of meningitis, encephalitis. On the visual system, it can give a complication in the form of conjunctivitis or keratitis. In general, with a weakened immune system, the pathogen can affect almost all organs, causing complications in the digestive, nervous, cardiovascular, urinary, excretory, respiratory and visual systems.

However, such serious complications can be only in 1% of cases.

Photos of herpes in men in the intimate area:

2. Ease of infection.

At the moment, it is known that up to ninety percent of the population is affected by the virus, while in a visible form it manifests itself in only 20%. The virus seems to “hide” in the nerve nodes of an infected person, manifesting itself only in conditions when immunity is reduced.

In the active phase, the patient becomes contagious, and the pathogen can be transmitted in numerous ways - through blood transfusion, sexually, from mother to child in the process of gestation and childbirth, and even by airborne droplets.

3. Relapses.

A person who has been ill once already has this disease. The hepatitis virus is continuously present in the nervous tissues, waiting for favorable conditions for its reproduction. And then he again goes into an acute phase.

Ways of transmission of genital herpes.

Transmission through saliva, there is a probability of a few percent.

1. With blood transfusion.

Despite the fact that when transfusing blood from a patient with herpes, the risk of infection is close to 100%, this route of transmission is not the leading one, due to the comparative rarity of the procedure and a rather careful selection of donors.

2. Sexual.

This is the most common type of infection with genital herpes. Infection occurs during any type of sex with an infected partner (genital, oral, anal, petting), and the use of a condom helps protect against transmission in only 70-80% of cases. Some researchers do not exclude the possibility of infection from a partner who is in a state where there are no visible symptoms of infection.

When kissing

3. Household.

The genital herpes virus can be transmitted through common hygiene items (towels, etc.), through bedding and through any tactile contact (handshake, hugs). Despite the fact that the predominant route of transmission of this infection is sexual, this type of contact with an infected person is also unsafe.

4. From mother to child.

For example, if a pregnant woman has an active form, then the risk of transmission through the placenta is up to 80%. Also, a child can become infected from the mother during childbirth, for example, if the vaginal mucosa is affected by sores (vesicles). The third route of infection from mother to child is the care of an infected mother for her children, feeding, etc.

In general, you can get infected from a sick person in different ways. At the same time, it is not at all necessary that he has any visual signs, because many men and women with strong immunity have genital herpes almost asymptomatically, noting only a slight malaise, fever, which can be attributed to the onset of a cold.

Since the virus mainly affects people who are sexually active, men aged 18 to 40 are most susceptible to it.

Symptoms.

Everything is the same on other parts of the body.

1. Initial phase.

The latent period (when there are no signs of illness, but the virus has already entered the body and began to multiply) is about a month. in men are similar to colds. A person feels a slight malaise, weakness, feels overwhelmed. Subfebrile temperature is often observed (a couple of days it is increased to 37-38 degrees).

Then these symptoms disappear, and the disease continues to develop, capturing more and more new areas.

2. Active phase.

If the mucous membrane of the urethra is affected, burning and other pain sensations may occur. Further, in the inguinal region, pains of a pulling nature, itching may begin. In some cases, there is an increase in the size of the inguinal lymph nodes.

3. Final stage.

Pubic

On the genitals, and in some cases on the adjacent areas, redness occurs, at first filled with liquid, which rapidly becomes cloudy, becoming whitish. Bubbles can be numerous, or they can merge into large ones, forming small foci.

Within 2-3 days, the bubbles open, forming small weeping ulcers on the surface of the skin. Ulcers slowly dry out over time, becoming covered with a crust.

In the case of normal immunity, the ulcers completely resolve within 2-3 weeks, leaving no traces on the skin. However, during the healing process, the affected areas of the skin itch and itch. Herpes is especially painful in men on the head.

In rare moments (1% or less), it gives severe complications to the central nervous system and other organs. In this example, severe headaches, discomfort in the muscles, tendons and joints, significant weakness and other symptoms are observed. This indicates a serious pathological process in the brain and other organs, you need to immediately consult a doctor.

Frequency and depth of relapses.

You shouldn't feel uncomfortable. Run to the doctor!

The virus remains in the body after the primary disease, hiding in the nervous tissue for decades in a latent form. Relapses occur in case of a strong decrease in immunity, which can be caused by hypothermia, overheating, severe stress, etc.

That is, it can have relapses both after a few days and after a few years, depending on the state of the body, or it may never appear after the primary disease if the patient's state of health remains consistently good.

In case of recurrence, skin rashes, vesicles and sores can be observed in approximately the same areas as in the initial infection. Moreover, these manifestations pass much faster, and are accompanied by unpleasant sensations to a much lesser extent. Skin rashes disappear with a relapse, as a rule, within a week.

Rarely enough, with relapses of the disease, there is a general deterioration in the condition, fever, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, headache. There may be pain when emptying the bladder.

The herpes virus is in a latent state in the body of an infected person all his life, and during periods of exposure to stress factors, it migrates from the nervous tissue, causing a recurrence of the disease.

Diagnostics.

Diagnostics

There are the following diagnostic methods:

1. Thorough external inspection. The presence of characteristic rashes allows you to confidently make a diagnosis.
2. Linked immunosorbent assay. Allows you to determine the disease by antibodies specific to this virus.
3. Determination of the characteristic DNA polymerase of the virus in blood samples taken or scrapings.
4. Growing a culture of the virus from the samples taken, followed by determination using a microscope.

Complications of herpes in men.

• damage to the prostate gland is fraught with cancer;
• damage to the central nervous system can cause meningitis, encephalitis;
• the herpes virus can affect the eyes in the form of conjunctivitis or keratitis;
• herpes urethritis;
• herpes cystitis;
• herpes prostatitis (according to some estimates, up to 30% of prostatitis moments in general);
• The digestive, nervous, cardiovascular, urinary, and respiratory systems can also be affected by the virus.

Serious complications occur in less than 1% of situations. In the event of complications, symptoms such as general deterioration, weakness, fever, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, headache, suppuration of the eyes, and others can be observed.

Also, in some cases, a rectal fissure is possible, which is accompanied by pain, blood in the stool, and flatulence.

Basic drugs and treatment regimens.

Huge selection of drugs, but there are

At the onset of the first signs of genital prostatitis, you should consult a doctor. Do not self-medicate, remember that it can give serious complications!

Despite the fact that it will never be possible to completely remove the prostatitis virus from the body, the correct and timely treatment of herpes in men on the genitals will keep the disease in the latent phase indefinitely. Such treatment helps to avoid complications and alleviate the course of both the primary disease and relapses, reducing pain.

For treatment, 4 main antiviral drugs are used:

Effective remedies

1. Acyclovir. Take 5 tablets per day. On the recommendation of a doctor, in some cases, the dosage is doubled. The medication is taken within five to seven days. With a relapse of the disease, the dose taken is reduced, on the recommendation of the attending physician, to three or four tablets.
2. Famciclovir. It is used for treatment if the virus has managed to develop resistance to the previous drug. Dosage - 3 tablets per day, the duration of treatment is similar to acyclovir.
3. Valaciclovir. It is similar in therapeutic effect to famciclovir. Dosage - 2 times a day, 500 milligrams, until complete recovery.
4. Panavir. In severe cases, administered intravenously. The dosage is established by the attending physician.

The listed drugs block the process of reproduction in pathogens, and with the timely start of treatment, they reduce the degree of pain.

The dosages of the listed antiviral drugs are adjusted in case of liver disease, kidney disease, in the treatment of elderly and black patients: all of the listed patients have flow characteristics that are taken into account when writing a prescription.

In addition to tablets, ointments and gels based on antiviral drugs can be used - for example, Zovirax, Panavir, etc. For severe pain, painkillers and sedatives are used.

With the exact implementation of the instructions of the doctors and the observance of the regimen of taking medications, more than 90% of the variants of the disease are successfully cured. Remember that timely treatment of herpes on the sex organs in men is the key to future sexual health!

We protect ourselves from infection and relapse.

The main recommendations from the company that produces the drug cycloferon.

• exclude promiscuity, make love only with trusted partners; it is better to give up a short pleasure than to spend nerves and money on doctors and sometimes expensive treatment;
• if you are not sure about your partner, you must use condoms, after sex, lubricate the genitals and the skin around them with antiviral agents, such as miramistin; it is especially important to use it in the case of a broken condom;
• avoid sex with partners who have visible manifestations, especially in the area of ​​​​the lips and intimate organs;
• observe special hygiene rules in conditions of possible infection (if one of the family members has genital herpes):

1. The sick person should sleep separately, use a separate towel, dishes and other hygiene products.
2. Exclude sex, kissing, close contacts.
3. A sick man needs to change his underwear every day, every few days - bed linen.
4. You should endure the sensation of itching, do not touch the affected area. If you still can’t stand it, you must immediately wash your hands with hot water and soap, in no case touching other parts of the body.

In the example of violation of these simple rules, there is a risk of infection spreading to other parts of the mucous membrane and skin (including eyes, lips, oropharynx).

It should be remembered that genital herpes is contagious not only during the period of the primary disease, but also during periods of relapse. Follow the safety rules, do not infect your loved ones!

It is extremely important to maintain a state of immunity at a high level. To do this, you need to give the body regular physical activity, observe the regime of the day and rest. Nutrition should be balanced, contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Avoid both overheating and hypothermia.

Useful hardening, active sports and other methods that improve health. And most importantly, perhaps, is to avoid excessive stress loads. Indeed, in our difficult time, stress is one of the main factors that determine the state of health.

Thus, this is a common and rather dangerous disease, which must be approached with all seriousness. Get treated in a timely manner, maintain your health, and enjoy a full sex life!

Who said that curing herpes is difficult?

• Do you suffer from itching and burning in the places of rashes?
• The sight of blisters does not at all add to your self-confidence ...
• And somehow ashamed, especially if you suffer from genital herpes ...
• And for some reason, ointments and medicines recommended by doctors are not effective in your case ...
• In addition, constant relapses have already firmly entered your life ...
• And now you are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that will help you get rid of herpes!

There is an effective remedy for herpes. and find out how Elena Makarenko cured herself of genital herpes in 3 days!

Current medicine treats genital herpes in two main directions:

• Etiopathogenetic antiviral therapy with antiviral drugs.
• Complex treatment, adding immunotherapy to antiviral symptomatic therapy.

How to treat genital herpes most effectively?

With the right approach to treatment in the initial period of the development of the disease, it can be cured within 1-3 weeks. But before starting any of the methods of treatment, you need to be clearly aware that there are no ways to get rid of the herpetic virus forever!

The virus is located within the nerve cells, remaining in them forever. All treatment procedures are aimed at reducing symptoms, at the earliest relief of clinical discomfort, as well as reducing the frequency of recurrent cases. In a global sense, it is necessary to stop the process of virus reproduction, as well as increase the resistance of the immune system.

How to treat genital herpes at the initial stage?

• Treatment of genital herpes most often begins with antiviral drugs based on acyclovir, as well as its derivative, ribavirin.
• Tablets and ointments, in which the active ingredients are acyclovir and ribavirin, stop the viral spread, and also relieve many symptoms.
• Reducing burning sensation, as well as eliminating other unpleasant symptoms, can be achieved through mild analgesics.
• The frequency of application of ointments is from 3 to 5 times a day on the affected areas of the genitals, which must be pre-cleaned and dried.
• It is possible to use antiviral suppositories if the anal or vaginal mucous membranes are affected.

The treatment regimen is signed only by a doctor! On average, the course of treatment lasts up to 7th days, with a primary viral infection - up to 10 days.

If frequent recurrences of genital herpes are recorded, then it is reasonable to receive preventive treatment from a doctor. Preventive treatment involves taking antiviral drugs with acyclovir and ribavirin for 2-3 months, which will help to further reduce the number of relapses by 30%.

Also, in order to form the correct immunity with frequent relapses, vaccination is recommended, which will stimulate the formation of one's own interferons to fight the herpes virus.

What does genital herpes look like in the perineum

Genital herpes is "famous" not only for the physical discomfort it causes, but also for its unaesthetic appearance. After the first harbingers of the disease (burning, itching and swelling of the affected areas), rashes begin to appear in the form of bubbles.

What does genital herpes look like?

• Rashes on the surfaces of the mucous membranes of the genital organs, as well as on the areas of the skin adjacent to them, look like bubbles in the form of minor clusters with pronounced redness and swelling around.
• After a few days (up to 4 days on average), the blisters begin to burst, the contents of these blisters pour out, and then ulcers and erosions begin to form, the size of which depends on the initial accumulations of herpetic blisters.
• Drying up, sores and erosions cause the formation of crusts, which can cause repeated weeping lesions if they are removed forcibly or, for example, accidentally clinging to underwear.
• The foci of rashes are most often limited, less often they are widespread.

All this is observed in the classical form of the course of genital herpes. If the disease proceeds in an atypical form (most often found in women), then there may not be any affected foci of an erosive or blistering rash at all, but doctors can see a clear inflammatory process in the genitals, which can also be confirmed by appropriate tests.

In the genitals, only some redness, itching (sometimes with burning), painful cracks will be noted throughout the potential infection zone, but no bubbles will be observed.

Primary diagnosis of genital herpes virus

The primary diagnosis of the genital herpes virus includes a visual examination and laboratory virological blood tests, namely: a biochemical study of blood serum for the presence of virus-specific antibodies in it (a study of paired sera and monitoring the growth of antibodies in dynamics).

Secondary diagnosis of herpes in the perineum

The task of the secondary diagnosis of herpes is the isolation and differentiation of the herpes virus from the infected material of the perineum.

The laboratory material for research is:

• vesicular contents;
• liquid from the bottom of weeping erosions;
• vaginal and urogenital discharge;
• scrapings from the mucous membrane of the urethra, cervical canal, anus, vaginal walls, rectal ampoule.

Most often, a molecular PCR reaction (polymerase chain reaction) is used to make a diagnosis, in which the diagnosis of genital herpes can be made even without clinical manifestations of the disease. If the analysis is carried out correctly, with all the nuances of sampling, then its effectiveness and truthfulness can reach all 100%.

The first signs of genital herpes: we determine the disease correctly

The disease has two forms - primary and recurrent. The primary form very often does not have any symptoms, i.e. a person is actually a virus carrier - there are no first signs of genital herpes, but contagiousness is present.

However, sometimes herpes begins to appear already in the first few days after infection, then the first signs of genital herpes in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bfuture rashes will be itching, possibly a noticeable burning sensation, as well as visible swelling.

Lymph nodes begin to increase in the groin (mainly unilateral enlargement), general weakness is felt due to general viral intoxication of the body, and body temperature also rises (most often not higher than 38 °). These are all the very first harbingers of the disease, which can persist throughout the entire period of exacerbation.

They are embarrassed to talk about this disease, although many suffer from it. Too delicate is a problem - herpes, which affects the intimate areas of both women and men.

How to understand that you are sick with herpes, is it difficult to cure it and how dangerous is this disease?

Where does herpes come from? The "culprit" of an unpleasant infection in the intimate area is recognized as the so-called HSV - herpes simplex virus.

It comes in two types, both of which can cause genital lesions: both type 1 herpes and type 2 disease.

Having penetrated the body, HSV settles in the nerve ganglia (neural nodes). If a person's immunity is normal, then antibodies block the infection. Then its clinical manifestations are absent.

But some unfavorable factors help to activate the virus. Doctors call such causes of rashes and itching - characteristic manifestations of herpes:

• avitaminosis;
• stressful conditions;
• change of climatic zones;
• temperature changes (overheating and hypothermia);
• colds;
• inadequate personal hygiene.

More than 90% of the inhabitants of the Earth today are carriers of the virus. And many don't even know it. Once having entered the body, HSV settles there forever.

It is still impossible to cure the disease completely. From time to time it will manifest itself as a relapse.

Male herpes manifests itself more locally than female, affecting a smaller area - the glans penis and the wrong side of the foreskin. Sometimes the affected area affects the scrotum and perineum. We wrote more about herpes on the glans penis in men.

Signs of the disease appear gradually.

With relapses of genital herpes, vesicles often appear in those places that have already been affected.

The following video will also supplement the main symptoms of genital herpes:

Disease can be primary or recurrent. Infection at the primary stage is characterized by an acute course with pronounced symptoms (in most cases).

Acute course of herpes lasts from 10 days to one and a half months.

Abundant rashes of vesicles filled with exudate cause discomfort and pain.

Women are sometimes concerned about the discharge - they are plentiful, but there is no specific smell.

When the latent phase of the disease occurs, many patients believe that recovery has come. In fact, herpes took on a recurrent character, which can have 3 shapes:

The disease has 3 stages of development:

1. There is damage to the external genitalia.
2. The process affects the cervix and vagina in women, in men - the urethra.
3. The disease spreads to the internal organs - appendages, uterus, bladder and prostate gland.

The infection is sometimes disguised as diseases similar to herpes - syphilis, thrush in women, balanoposthitis in men.

The primary stage of herpes lasts for several weeks. The virus then migrates to the nervous system, where it remains dormant.

In the presence of provoking factors, a relapse occurs. The new outbreak is not as acute or prolonged as the initial episode of herpes.

There may be several such outbreaks during the year. Their flow is more relaxed.

Diagnostics

The first step in diagnosing herpes is examination of the genitals, anus, buttocks, thighs, lymph nodes patient.

In women, the gynecologist checks the walls of the vagina and the cervix. When rashes are detected, their contents are taken with a scraping for analysis. In men, scrapings from the anus, urethra, and pharynx may be taken.

If the symptoms of genital herpes are not clearly expressed, laboratory tests will help confirm the diagnosis:

Treatment of herpes in the intimate area at home

Treatment of herpes at home should begin with the cessation of sexual contact. It is in the acute stage, when rashes appear, that the disease is transmitted to the partner with almost one hundred percent probability.

The doctor prescribes the treatment regimen, it may include:

1. antiviral therapy.
2. The use of local preparations (creams, ointments, lotions).
3. Reception of means for strengthening immunity.
4. Traditional methods of treatment as an addition to traditional medical procedures.

Modern medicine is not yet able to help completely get rid of herpes, but complex measures will help to resist the virus as much as possible and alleviate the patient's condition.

A full course of therapy, starting with the treatment of the acute stage, may take about 3 months. If you follow all the doctor's recommendations, you can ensure that the virus "goes into hibernation" and relapses will be rare.

With the help of traditional medicine recipes, they strengthen the immune system and the body's ability to resist infection. To do this, you can take:

External use of folk remedies helps to relieve itching, drying of wounds:

• help reduce the discomfort of calendula, tea tree, jojoba, citrus, bergamot, geranium, lavender oils;
• use for herpes compresses from a decoction of mint, licorice root, arnica flowers, alcohol tincture of birch buds;
• healing of ulcers and erosions is helped by lotions from a mixture of slightly warmed honey and dried celandine, aloe juice or Kalanchoe.

It is important to carefully use folk remedies to avoid allergic reactions, given that with herpes, the mucous membranes in the intimate area are especially sensitive.

Preparations (ointments, tablets, creams)

Most experts agree that today the best medicine that can suppress the activity of the herpovirus is Acyclovir.

Actively used for antiviral therapy and analogues of the drug:

1. Zovirax.
2. Fenistil Pencivir.
3. Valaciclovir.
4. Famciclovir.
5. Lavomax.

Most often, drugs are taken in the form of tablets, sometimes injections of drugs are prescribed..

Medicines against the virus are effective in combination with interferon-based immunostimulants:

• Cycloferon;
• Viferon;
• Amiksin;
• Immunal.

The course of taking antiviral and immunity-strengthening agents is from 7 to 10 days. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe intramuscular injection of B vitamins.

The vaccine against Herpovax viruses is administered every six months if the patient has frequent relapses of the disease.

The choice of ointments and creams for local therapy of herpes in intimate places is quite large. The need for their use and the exact dosage will be determined by the attending physician.

Skin lesions are treated:

Here are the popular ones Akriderm and Triderm are not intended for treatment herpes simplex. They have a different range of action.

Regarding the use of Fukortsin(in the form of a solution or ointment) you should definitely consult a doctor. When applied to large areas of the skin, the drug may be toxic.

Antibiotics for patients with herpes are prescribed only if the virus provoked the addition of a secondary infection (fungal or bacterial). But in the fight against the herpes virus itself, this group of drugs is ineffective.

The specialist will also tell about the drugs in this video:

Self-medication for herpes in the intimate area is dangerous - only a doctor can prescribe a specific drug, taking into account the picture of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

Do not forget that many remedies for herpes have side effects and contraindications.

During the acute stage, it is important follow certain rules:

How to treat an ailment during pregnancy

If a woman becomes infected with herpes during pregnancy, it is very dangerous for the unborn child. There are no antibodies in maternal blood that would protect the fetus from exposure to the virus.

This is fraught with miscarriage, the child may be affected organs, develop deformities.

With a primary infection or exacerbation of herpes a month before childbirth, a woman is most often offered a caesarean section to reduce the risk of infection of the baby.

Expectant mothers must be treated for this disease, and only under the supervision of a specialist. The doctor will make a treatment plan in each trimester.

For the treatment of herpes in pregnant women, antiviral drugs, immunocorrection are used (immunoglobulin and Viferon suppositories are used), external topical agents, for example, zinc ointment.

Used in the treatment of pregnant women Zovirax, Acyclovir, Panavir, but all drugs are used with caution, assessing the risk of a possible negative effect on the mother and unborn child.

Possible consequences

The psychosomatics of herpes is such that the consequences of the disease can adversely affect a person's mental health. The sick person experiences severe mental discomfort, he often has depression, nervous breakdowns, alternating with apathy.

Physiologically, herpes is fraught with:

• the formation of bleeding cracks in the mucous membrane of the genitals and anus. In addition to pain, it interferes with normal sexual life, causing problems in the family;
• severe pain in the lower abdomen, which occurs due to the defeat of the peripheral nervous system by herpes. Pain can be given to the perineum and rectum;
• a decrease in immunity as a result of constant relapses. Because of this, the body becomes defenseless against other infections;
• in men - the occurrence of urethritis, prostatitis, cystitis;
• damage to the nervous system - the development of encephalitis, meningitis;
• decreased libido, which provokes difficulties in relationships with the opposite sex.

Particularly severe consequences of the disease - herpes of newborns, which occurs if the child becomes infected during the mother's pregnancy or during childbirth.

A dangerous illness can lead to the death of a baby or the development of complex neurological disorders, liver damage, and heart disease.

Prevention

The most effective measure to prevent infection with herpes virus is an orderly sex life.. Frequent change of sexual partners at times increases the risk of infection.

Lifestyle is also important - the percentage of herpes infections among people of non-traditional sexual orientation, HIV-infected people, drug addicts is much higher. In a girl of "easy" behavior, infection is also more likely, given the frequent change of partners.

What preventive measures will reduce the risk of infection:

If infection with herpes has already occurred, it is important to avoid relapses to lead a healthy lifestyle, avoid stress and nervous strain, colds, exacerbation of chronic ailments, a sharp change in climatic conditions.

It is also important to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, good nutrition, and moderate exercise.

One of the most common diseases is genital or genital herpes.

The causative agent of the disease is a virus. Infection occurs sexually.

The disease brings discomfort to a person's daily life, so it is important to know how to treat herpes in intimate areas and which drugs are suitable for this.

Herpes in intimate area

Most often, the disease is diagnosed both in middle age.

Genital herpes is an acute infectious disease that affects intimate places (perineum, genitals). It is caused by a type 2 person. comes from an infected partner during unprotected intercourse. It can also be anal or oral sex.

A person may not even know that he is a carrier of the infection. The disease manifests itself in the exacerbation phase with rashes on the genitals.

Alcoholics, drug addicts and people who have promiscuous sex are at risk.

The provoking factors are:

• weakened immunity;
• colds;
• frequent abortions;
• untreated sexually transmitted diseases;
• constant stress.

In addition, genital herpes can occur with an incorrectly installed spiral in women.

In the absence of timely or genital herpes, it is dangerous for its own. Since the microflora of intimate areas contributes to the spread of infection, the virus can infect nearby organs, as well as provoke the development of malignant neoplasms.

In men, advanced genital herpes can cause. and directly to the fetus. In addition, it can occur during childbirth.

Symptoms in women

The main manifestations of herpes in intimate places in women are:

In addition, sometimes women with infection with the herpes virus may experience vaginal discharge.

Manifestations in men

In men, herpes in the intimate area is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• pain, prostate, urethra, bladder, testicles;
• itching in the penis;
• rashes on the head.

It must be remembered that it is impossible to completely recover from genital herpes - if the virus enters the body, it will remain there forever and, regardless of the person's sexual activity, relapses will be repeated.

Diagnostics

Herpes in the genital area may indicate the development of many diseases. Therefore, it is very important to be tested for hepatitis B, AIDS, syphilis, chlamydia, and other infections.

Video from an expert:

Treatment of rashes in the groin

According to the results of the study, an individual treatment regimen is selected. Infection with genital herpes needs with the use of ointments, tablets,.

As already mentioned, no cure for this disease has yet been developed and conservative therapy is aimed at reducing the manifestations of the disease and achieving a long-term remission. Only a doctor can prescribe an effective treatment.

The basis of conservative therapy is the reception in the form of ointments, tablets, creams:

1. . This drug blocks the production of viral DNA and is absorbed by the digestive system. Stops the appearance of rashes, accelerates the formation of crusts on the skin. This medication also has an analgesic effect. Not recommended for people suffering from neurological disorders, as well as renal insufficiency. Side effects may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, increased drowsiness.
2. . This tool stops the reproduction of the virus. Side effects may include sleep disturbances, dizziness, nausea with vomiting, and anemia. Do not prescribe to people with impaired kidney function, neurological disorders, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, as well as pregnant women.
3. . This drug helps stop replication by stopping viral DNA synthesis. Not prescribed for pregnant women.
4. Denavir. The drug is used only as prescribed by the doctor. It is forbidden to take people who are allergic to the components of the drug and with a weakened immune system.

In addition, the complex prescribed drugs to strengthen the immune system:

• Imunofan;
• Ridostin.

The effectiveness of therapy primarily depends on the timeliness of contacting a doctor.

The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the faster you can get rid of its manifestations.

Ways of infection

Only through direct contact with an infected person. You can become infected with normal, anal or oral sex.

In addition, an infected mother is capable, for example, during childbirth or in the household, using common hygiene products.

The virus enters the body through wounds on the skin or mucous membranes.

Factors contributing to the development of the disease:

• overheating or hypothermia;
• irrational nutrition;
• viral diseases;
• pregnancy;
• frequent stress or overwork;
• premenstrual syndrome;
• excessive consumption of alcohol or coffee.

A person becomes contagious a few days after infection, even if he does not have any manifestations of the disease.

Video about genital herpes:

Prevention

Prevention of genital herpes is aimed at strengthening the immune system and preventing infection.

The main preventive methods are:

• adhering to a healthy lifestyle, giving up bad habits;
• regular physical activity;
• full sleep;
• avoidance of stressful situations;
• rapid treatment of any diseases;
• control of sexual partners;
• use of contraceptive methods.

With frequent manifestations of herpes, it is recommended to consult a doctor who will prescribe an effective treatment. Women planning a pregnancy should definitely undergo an examination in order to protect their health and the health of the unborn child.

Herpes in the intimate area is a very unpleasant disease that brings discomfort to a person's life. With proper functioning of the immune system, the body is able to overcome the virus on its own. However, if infection does occur, you should consult a doctor at the first manifestations to receive timely assistance.

Herpes is widespread in the human population. This viral infection is a significant medical and social problem.

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is present in 9 out of 10 people on the planet. In every fifth person, it causes any external manifestations. HSV is characterized by neurodermotropism, that is, it prefers to multiply in nerve cells and skin. The favorite sites of the virus are the skin near the lips, on the face, the mucous membranes lining the genitals, the brain, the conjunctiva and the cornea of ​​​​the eye. HSV can lead to abnormal pregnancy and childbirth, causing fetal death, miscarriage, systemic viral disease in newborns. There is evidence that the herpes simplex virus is associated with malignant tumors of the prostate and cervix.

The disease is more common in women, but it also occurs in men. The peak incidence occurs at the age of 40 years. However, often genital herpes first appears in boys and girls during sexual intercourse. In young children, the infection on the genitals most often gets from the skin of the hands, from contaminated towels in children's groups, and so on.

HSV is unstable in the external environment, it dies under the action of sunlight and ultraviolet rays. It keeps for a long time at low temperatures. In dried form, HSV can exist for up to 10 years.

How is genital herpes transmitted?

The cause of the disease is herpes simplex viruses (Herpessimplex) of two types, mainly HSV-2. The virus of the first type was previously associated with a disease of the skin, oral cavity. HSV-2 causes genital herpes and meningoencephalitis. Now there are cases of illness caused by the first type of virus or a combination of them. Often the carrier does not have any symptoms of the disease and does not suspect that he is the source of the infection.

How can you get this disease? The most common ways of transmission of genital herpes are sexual and contact. Most often, infection occurs through sexual contact with a carrier of the virus or with a sick person. You can get infected by kissing, as well as by using common household items (spoons, toys). The virus can also be transmitted by airborne droplets.

From the mother, the pathogen enters the child's body during childbirth. The risk of such transmission depends on the type of lesion in the patient. It is up to 75%. In addition, infection of the fetus is possible through the blood during the period of viremia (the release of viral particles into the blood) in case of an acute illness in the mother.

Children in most cases become infected with HSV-1 in the first years of life. By the age of 5, HSV-2 infection also increases. During the first six months of life, babies do not get sick, this is due to the presence of maternal antibodies in them. If the mother was not previously infected and did not pass on her protective antibodies to the child, then children at such an early age are very ill.

Classification

Medically, this disease is called "Anogenital Herpes Viral Infection Caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus". There are two main forms of the disease:

Urinary tract infection:

• genital herpes in women;
• genital herpes in men;

Infection of the rectum and skin around the anus.

The mechanism of development (pathogenesis) of genital herpes

The virus enters the body through damaged mucous membranes and skin. In the "entrance gate" area, it multiplies, causing typical manifestations. Further, the pathogen usually does not spread, it rarely enters the lymph nodes and even less often enters the bloodstream, causing viremia. The further fate of the virus largely depends on the properties of the human body.

If the body has a good immune defense, a virus carrier is formed, which does not exclude recurrence of the infection under adverse conditions. If the body cannot cope with the infection, the herpes virus enters the internal organs (brain, liver, and others) through the blood, affecting them. In response to infection, antibodies are produced, but they do not prevent the development of exacerbations and relapses.

When immunity is weakened, the virus that has been preserved in nerve cells before is activated and enters the bloodstream, causing an exacerbation of the disease.

Symptoms of the disease

For most people who are carriers, HPV does not cause any symptoms for a long time. The incubation period for genital herpes in previously uninfected people is 7 days. In men, the virus persists in the organs of the genitourinary system, in women - in the cervical canal, vagina, and urethra. After infection, life-long carriage of the genital herpes virus is formed. The disease has a tendency to persistent course with relapses.

Causes contributing to the development of external signs of infection:

• permanent or temporary decrease in immunity, including HIV infection;
• hypothermia or overheating;
• concomitant diseases, for example, diabetes mellitus, acute respiratory infection;
• medical interventions, including abortion and the introduction of an intrauterine contraceptive ().

Under the influence of these factors, a prodromal period occurs - "pre-illness". The initial signs of genital herpes: at the site of the future focus, patients note the appearance of itching, pain or burning. After some time, rashes appear in the focus.

What does genital herpes look like?

The elements of the rash are located separately or grouped, they look like small bubbles with a diameter of up to 4 mm. Such elements are located on a reddened (erythematous), edematous base - the skin of the perineum, perianal zone and the mucous membrane of the genitourinary organs. The appearance of vesicles (vesicles) may be accompanied by moderate fever, headache, malaise, and insomnia. Regional (inguinal) lymph nodes become larger and more painful. The initial episode is particularly pronounced in people previously uninfected with the virus, who lack antibodies to it.

A few days later, the vesicles open on their own, forming erosions (superficial damage to the mucous membrane) with uneven outlines. At this time, patients complain of severe itching and burning sensation in the erosion zone, weeping, severe pain, which is even more aggravated during sexual intercourse. During the first ten days of illness, new rashes appear. Viral particles are actively isolated from them.

Gradually, the erosions become covered with crusts and heal, leaving small foci of weak pigmentation or lighter areas of the skin. The time from the appearance of the rash element to its epithelialization (healing) is two to three weeks. The pathogen enters the cells of the nerve trunks, where it remains latent for a long time.

Symptoms of genital herpes in female patients are expressed in the labia, vulva, perineum, vagina, and cervix. In men, the glans penis, foreskin, and urethra are affected.

The pelvic nerves are often involved in the process. This leads to violations of the sensitivity of the skin of the lower extremities, pain in the lower back and sacrum. Sometimes it becomes frequent and painful urination.

In women, the first episode of herpes is longer and more noticeable than in men. The duration of an exacerbation without treatment is about 3 weeks.

Recurrent genital herpes

Approximately 10-20% of those who have been ill develop recurrent genital herpes. The first manifestation of infection is usually more violent. The recurrence of genital herpes is less intense and passes faster than the primary symptoms. This is due to the antibodies already present in the body at this point, which help fight the virus. Type 1 genital herpes recurs less frequently than type 2.

Exacerbation of the disease can be manifested by minor symptoms - itching, rare rashes. Sometimes the picture of the disease is represented by painful confluent erosions, ulcerations of the mucous membrane. Isolation of the virus lasts from 4 days or longer. There is an increase in the inguinal lymph nodes, lymphostasis and severe swelling of the genital organs due to stagnation of the lymph (elephantiasis) are not excluded.

Relapses occur equally often in men and women. Men have longer episodes, and women have a more vivid clinical picture.

If the frequency of relapses is more than six per year, they speak of a severe form of the disease. The moderate form is accompanied by three to four exacerbations during the year, and the mild form is accompanied by one or two.

In 20% of cases, atypical genital herpes develops. The manifestations of the disease are masked by another infection of the genitourinary system, for example, (thrush). So, thrush is characterized by discharge, which is practically absent in normal genital herpes.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of genital herpes is carried out using the following laboratory tests:

• virological methods (isolation of the pathogen using a chicken embryo or cell culture, the result can be obtained in two days);
• polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which detects the genetic material of the virus;
• detection of pathogen antigens (its particles) using enzyme immunoassay and immunofluorescent analysis;
• detection in the blood of antibodies produced by the human body in response to the influence of HSV using enzyme immunoassay;
• cytomorphological methods that assess cell damage during HSV infection (formation of giant cells with many nuclei and intranuclear inclusions).

An analysis for genital herpes is recommended to be taken repeatedly with an interval of several days, from 2 to 4 studies from different lesions. In women, sampling is recommended on the 18-20th day of the cycle. This increases the chance of recognizing a viral infection and confirming the diagnosis.

The most informative are tests such as PCR in the study of urine and scrapings from the genitourinary organs (vagina, urethra, cervix).

Treatment

The diet of patients with genital herpes does not have any special features. It should be complete, balanced, rich in proteins and vitamins. Food during an exacerbation is best baked or stewed, steamed. Fermented milk and vegetable products, as well as plentiful drinking, will benefit.

Treatment of genital herpes, its intensity and duration depend on the form of the disease and its severity. How to treat genital herpes in each patient is determined by a venereologist based on a complete examination and examination of the patient. Self-medication in this case is unacceptable. To determine how to cure a patient, the data of his immunogram, that is, an assessment of the state of immunity, are required.

For the treatment of the disease, the following groups of drugs are used:

• antiviral drugs of systemic action;
• antiviral agents for topical use;
• immunostimulating substances, analogues of interferons, which also have an antiviral effect;
• symptomatic drugs (antipyretics, painkillers).

Therapy with Acyclovir

The treatment regimen for acute genital herpes and its relapses primarily includes Acyclovir (Zovirax). With normal immunogram parameters, it is prescribed in a daily dose of 1 gram, divided into five doses, for ten days or until recovery. With significant immunodeficiency or damage to the rectum, the daily dose is increased to 2 grams in 4-5 doses. The earlier treatment is started, the higher its effectiveness. The best option for starting therapy, in which the drug is most effective, is the prodromal period or the first day of the onset of rashes.

How to get rid of relapses of the disease? For this purpose, suppressive (suppressive) therapy with Acyclovir is prescribed at a dose of 0.8 g per day. Tablets are taken for months, and sometimes years. Daily medication helps to avoid relapses in almost all patients, and in a third of them there are no repeated episodes of the disease.

Acyclovir is produced under trade names that include the word itself, as well as Acyclostad, Vivorax, Virolex, Gerperax, Medovir, Provirsan. Of its side effects, digestive disorders (nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea), headache, itching, fatigue can be noted. Very rare undesirable effects of the drug are hematopoietic disorders, renal failure, damage to the nervous system. It is contraindicated only in case of individual intolerance to the drug, and should also be administered with caution to patients with impaired renal function. Use is possible during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as in children, but only after assessing the possible risk.

In the prodromal period and in the early stages of the disease, 5% Acyclovir cream is effective. It helps better if the rashes are located on the skin. Apply it several times a day for a week.

There are second-generation Acyclovir preparations that are more effective. These include valaciclovir (Vairova, Valavir, Valvir, Valtrex, Valzikon, Virdel). It is well absorbed in the digestive organs, its bioavailability is several times higher than that of Acyclovir. Therefore, the effectiveness of treatment is higher by 25%. Exacerbation of the disease develops less frequently by 40%. The drug is contraindicated in manifesting HIV infection, kidney or bone marrow transplantation, as well as in children under 18 years of age. Use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is possible when assessing the risks and benefits.

Alternative drugs

How to treat genital herpes if it is caused by viruses resistant to Acyclovir? In this case, alternative means are prescribed - Famciclovir or Foscarnet. Famciclovir is available under such names as Minaker, Famacivir, Famvir. The drug is well tolerated, with only occasional headaches or nausea. Contraindication is only individual intolerance. Since this drug is new, its effect on the fetus has been little studied. Therefore, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is possible only according to individual indications.

Local preparations

Some antiviral medications for treating rashes are an ointment. Among them are the following:

• Foscarnet, applied to the skin and mucous membranes;
• Alpizarin, the drug is also available in the form of tablets;
• Tromantadin, most effective at the first sign of herpes;
• Khelepin; exists in the form for oral administration;
• Oksolin;
• Tebrofen;
• Riodoxol;
• Bonafton.

The frequency of application, the duration of treatment with local drugs is determined by the doctor. They are usually given several times a day for a week.

Therapy of genital herpes with interferon preparations

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in interferons or interferon inducers, which help the body cope with the infection itself, often with a direct antiviral effect. These include the following tools:

• Allokin-alpha;
• Amiksin;
• Wobe-Mugos E;
• Galavit;
• Giaferon;
• Groprinosin;
• Isoprinosine;
• Imunofan;
• Polyoxidonium;
• Cycloferon and many others.

They can be administered both internally and locally. Some of these drugs are suppositories. So, Viferon rectal suppositories are often prescribed as part of the complex therapy of genital herpes.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can be taken to relieve symptoms.

Antibiotics for genital herpes are not prescribed, since they only act on bacteria, not viruses. The effectiveness of such areas of therapy as homeopathy, alternative methods, has not been proven.

Prevention

A specific prevention of genital herpes, that is, a vaccine, has been developed. A Russian-made polio vaccine should be administered several times a year in courses of 5 injections. It is an inactivated culture vaccine. The effectiveness of such prevention is being studied.

Nonspecific prevention consists in observing sexual hygiene, refusing casual sexual intercourse.

A person infected with genital herpes should not overcool, avoid emotional stress, intense stress and other causes that cause exacerbation.

infection and pregnancy

It is believed that pregnancy is not a factor causing exacerbation of genital herpes. However, some scholars have a different opinion.

Pregnancy and childbirth with HSV without clinical manifestations are usually normal. Treatment of a pregnant woman is carried out if she develops systemic manifestations, for example, meningitis, hepatitis. This usually happens when a woman first encounters the virus during pregnancy. Acyclovir is prescribed for treatment.

If such treatment is not carried out, then as a result of viral particles entering the baby’s blood through the placenta (damaged or even healthy), an intrauterine infection will develop. In the first trimester of pregnancy, malformations are formed. In the second and third trimesters, the mucous membranes, the child's skin, eyes, liver, and brain are affected. Fetal death may occur. The risk of preterm birth increases. After the birth of such a baby, severe complications are possible: microcephaly (underdevelopment of the brain), microophthalmia and chorioretinitis (eye damage leading to blindness).

Delivery is carried out naturally. Caesarean section is prescribed only in cases where the mother has a rash on the genitals, and also if the first episode of infection she had during pregnancy. In these cases, prenatal prevention of the transmission of the herpes virus to the child is recommended with Acyclovir, prescribed from 36 weeks. An even more convenient and cost-effective drug for prenatal preparation of a sick woman is Valzikon (Valacyclovir). The use of antiviral agents before childbirth helps to reduce the frequency of exacerbations of genital herpes, reduce the likelihood of asymptomatic release of viral particles that infect the child.

During childbirth of a sick woman, premature outflow of water, weakness of labor activity is dangerous. Therefore, she needs special attention of medical personnel.

How dangerous is genital herpes for a newborn?

If a baby comes into contact with HSV while passing through the birth canal, he will develop neonatal herpes 6 days after birth. Its consequences are generalized sepsis, that is, infection of all internal organs of the child. A newborn can even die from infectious-toxic shock.

In connection with the potential threat to the child, each pregnant woman is examined for the carriage of HSV and, if necessary, undergoes treatment as prescribed by a doctor. After the birth of the baby, he is also examined and, if necessary, treated. If the child does not show any signs of infection, he must be observed for 2 months, since the manifestations of the disease are not always visible immediately.

To avoid the unpleasant consequences of the disease during pregnancy, an infected woman must undergo special training before her, the so-called pregravid. In particular, antiviral and immunostimulating agents of plant origin (Alpizarin) are prescribed orally and in the form of an ointment when exacerbations occur in the patient. At the same time, her immunity is corrected using interferon inducers. Within three months before the planned pregnancy, metabolic therapy is also prescribed, which improves the metabolism in cells (riboflavin, lipoic acid, calcium pantothenate, vitamin E, folic acid). At the same time, passive immunization can be used, that is, the introduction of ready-made antiviral antibodies, immunoglobulins, into the woman's body, which reduces the risk of exacerbation.

Pregnancy planning should be carried out only in the absence of relapses within six months. Diagnosis and treatment of genital herpes before pregnancy can reduce the incidence of complications from the mother and child, reduce the likelihood of recurrence during gestation, and minimize the risk of intrauterine infection or neonatal herpes. All this helps to reduce infant morbidity and mortality.