Preventing and Easing Genital Herpes Outbreaks

Herpes is a contagious viral infection affecting the skin and mucous membranes, characterised by a vesicular rash of clustered blisters. The virus in question belongs to the same family as that of chickenpox and shingles, as well as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and the Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis).

There are two types of virus:

• HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus 1): This most commonly affects the upper part of the body. It is also known as cold sores. It is also referred to as cold sores. It is spread through contact with saliva. Herpes outbreaks are recurrent throughout a person’s life

• HSV-2: On the other hand, this affects the genital and sacral areas (lower back, buttocks, thighs, groin, etc.). This infection takes the form of clusters of blisters containing a clear fluid, often around the corners of the mouth, the eye and the genitals. We'll discuss the HSV-2 infection in this article

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted, viral and recurrent condition, meaning it can flare up several times over the course of a person’s life. 

Genital herpes is common worldwide, although prevalence and the number of new cases vary between countries and populations.

The Causes of Genital Herpes

Transmission occurs only through direct, intimate contact between two people. Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to catch genital herpes through indirect transmission, such as in swimming pools or via toilet seats, as the virus is fragile. 

• Through sexual intercourse (anal, vaginal, oral)

• Through skin-to-skin contact with herpes lesions

Transmission

Please note that even in the absence of lesions or symptoms, it is possible to transmit the herpes virus.

Fatigue and stress weaken the immune system and can be risk factors for infection with the herpes virus. The key to protecting yourself against a herpes outbreak is to strengthen your immune system.

• Genital herpes can be asymptomatic

• There may be itching, a burning sensation and pain in the genital area, or weeping blisters

• It is a chronic infection. Following the initial infection, the herpes virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate periodically, causing recurrent outbreaks. These outbreaks may occur several times a year, particularly during periods of stress or fatigue, or when the immune system is weakened, such as during an infection

In men, inflammation and lesions may occur on the glans, foreskin, urethra, or anus. The lymph nodes in the groin may become swollen and tender.

In women, the initial infection is generally more severe than in men. Inflammation and lesions are found on the vulva, the walls of the vagina, the cervix, or the anus.

It is estimated that 60% of those infected are unaware of their condition, either because they have no symptoms or because they mistake their lesions for other skin infections.

Medicinal Treatments That Provide Relief

To date, no treatment is capable of eliminating the dormant virus. Medical treatments can only block the replication of active viruses within infected cells. They treat herpes outbreaks but do not eliminate the virus. This is why herpes is a recurrent condition. These are oral or topical antiviral medicines that act on the symptoms and limit the risk of transmission.

Ways to Prevent Genital Herpes

• Use a Condom: This helps prevent the virus from being passed on to your partner. It is still advisable to avoid sexual intercourse if you have symptoms

• Listen to Your Body: Learn to recognise the warning signs of a herpes outbreak (swelling of the vulva, burning and tingling) so that you can minimise the outbreak as quickly as possible

• Wash Your Hands Regularly: This is good advice in all circumstances, but particularly if you live with someone who has the virus

• Support the Immune System: Even if it remains dormant, once this virus has entered the body, it remains dormant for life and can reactivate whenever the immune system is weakened. It can be seen as a barometer of the immune system’s defences. Certain dietary supplements can help strengthen the body’s defences and prevent the virus from reactivating

How Can You Relieve Herpes Outbreaks?

• Wash the sores with soap and water only. Some toiletries can irritate the skin and exacerbate genital herpes

• Dry the sores thoroughly. You can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting, taking care to avoid burns. Allow the sores to air-dry to promote healing

• Wear loose-fitting clothes and cotton underwear, which help to wick away moisture

• If you have cystitis as well, drink plenty of fluids

• Do not use any topical treatments without medical advice

If you have genital herpes during pregnancy, you are strongly advised to discuss this with your doctor. They will prescribe an antiviral medication from the 36th week of pregnancy onwards. The aim is to prevent outbreaks during labour and whilst breastfeeding. This is because, if the herpes virus is transmitted to the baby (known as neonatal herpes), the newborn is at significant risk of blindness, brain damage, or skin infections.

The immune system is the body’s defence mechanism; it operates 24 hours a day. It acts as a barrier against surrounding microbes through the action of various types of cells (lymphocytes, macrophages, etc.). It is the first system to give way when the body is weakened due to certain excesses. There are a few factors that are very easy to manage to prevent a dip in immunity and thus avoid herpes outbreaks. Diet is the first factor to prioritise. It is no coincidence that the peak of the flu epidemic occurs three weeks after the festive season, a time of abundant feasting of all kinds. Opt for a fresh, light diet, rich in vitamins and minerals from raw and cooked vegetables, legumes, seaweed, and fruit. Cut out dairy products and cooked fats, which clog up the system and slow down the metabolism. Be mindful of how you manage your stress.