HERPES

Herpes usually has no symptoms, but symptoms may appear 4 to 7 days after infection. The first appearance of symptoms may be more painful, more extensive and longer-lasting than subsequent ones.

These symptoms are :

• Fever-like pimples
• Painful mouth, genital and/or anal lesions;
• Itching ;
• Pain when urinating.

If left untreated, herpes symptoms can lead to very uncomfortable complications, with more or less frequent recurrences, especially with fatigue or stress.

If the carrier's immune system is weakened (by another disease, for example), symptoms may be more severe and last longer.

Even if the lesions are not dangerous, herpes can have profound consequences on the intimate and sexual life of the carrier: stress, shame, embarrassment, etc., which can create tensions in relationships and disrupt daily life.

If left untreated, neonatal infection (during delivery) can be fatal for newborns or cause severe neurological sequelae. (Tesini, 2022)

Diagnosis of herpes is only possible in the case of outbreaks:

• Via a medical examination if lesions are apparent;
• More rarely, via a local swab/swab if lesions are apparent.

There is no cure for genital herpes: there is no definitive treatment.

There are, however, drugs available to reduce outbreaks, alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission.

To reduce the risk of transmitting genital herpes, we recommend using internal or external condoms and latex squares.

Condoms (especially the internal condom, formerly known as the "female" condom) reduce the risk of exposure but do not offer complete protection.