Herpes: Common Types, Treatment Options, and Prevention

If you've been diagnosed with herpes, you may be worried about what this means for your intimate relationships and daily life. Will you experience frequent outbreaks? Is there a risk of passing it on to your partner?

While these concerns are valid, antiviral medications and prevention strategies can help you manage outbreaks and significantly reduce the risk of transmission, enabling you to maintain healthy intimate relationships.

What is herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection?

Herpes is one of the most common viral infections, and many people carry it without realising. It's caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which comes in two types, HSV-1 and 2. These viruses can cause sores or blisters, known as outbreaks, that may appear on:

• The mouth (oral herpes)

• The genitals (genital herpes)

• Other parts of the body

What causes HSV infection?

HSV infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which spreads through close personal contact. Understanding how HSV spreads can help you feel more informed and in control: 

• Direct skin-to-skin contact during kissing or sexual activity

• Contact with infected skin or mucous membranes

HSV can also spread even when there are no visible sores, because the virus can sometimes “shed” from the skin (asymptomatic shedding). Once the virus enters your body, it’ll often stay dormant for long periods in your nerve cells, and many people experience few or no outbreaks over time. 

Types of herpes

While herpes can't be fully cured, it can be managed effectively. Antiviral medications help keep outbreaks minimal and reduce transmission risk, allowing you to maintain your health and quality of life. Herpes can affect different parts of your body depending on the type of virus. Here's a table to help you understand the main types of herpes:

How do you know if you have herpes? 

The only certain way to know if you have herpes is through testing. Many people show no symptoms or experience very mild signs that are easy to miss.

Common herpes symptoms to watch for: 

• Tingling, itching, or burning sensations around the genital area, anus, or mouth (often before sores appear)

• Painful, fluid-filled blisters, or sores in these areas

• Sores that break open, crust over, and heal within a few weeks

• Flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak (fever, body aches, or swollen lymph nodes)

Some people with herpes never have visible sores but can still pass the virus to others. This is why testing is so important, especially if you're sexually active or concerned about exposure.

If you're concerned about herpes or want to get tested, our O&G specialists at Thomson Medical are here to help. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical for personalised care and support.

What are the different stages of a herpes infection?

A herpes infection progresses through three main stages, primary infection, latency, and reactivation. Knowing these stages can help you recognise what's happening in your body and manage symptoms more effectively.

Stage 1: Primary infection

This is when HSV first enters your body. For many people, this stage passes without any symptoms at all. If symptoms do show up, you might notice:

• Fever and body aches

• Blisters or sores around the mouth (oral herpes) or genitals (genital herpes)

The first outbreak usually lasts a few weeks. While it can feel uncomfortable, it's simply your body responding to the virus.

Stage 2: Latency (dormant phase)

After the initial infection, the virus settles into nerve cells and becomes inactive. During this time, it causes no symptoms and can't spread to others. Many people stay in this quiet phase for months or even years without experiencing any outbreaks.

Treatment options of herpes

Whilst there's currently no definitive cure for herpes, outbreaks can be managed effectively with the right medication and self-care. Many people experience fewer and milder outbreaks over time.

• Antiviral medications:

  • Antiviral drugs reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks. Common options include:

    • Aciclovir

    • Famciclovir

    • Valaciclovir

  • These work best when taken at the first sign of symptoms like tingling or itching.

• Pain management:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease discomfort during outbreaks.

• Suppressive therapy:

  • For frequent or severe outbreaks, your doctor may recommend daily antiviral medication to reduce recurrence and lower transmission risk.

• Self-care measures:

  • Keep affected areas clean and dry

  • Wear loose and breathable clothing

  • Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling

  • Get plenty of rest

With the right treatment and self-care, you can manage herpes confidently.

When to seek for medical advice

You don't have to face this alone. Seeking medical advice early can give you clarity, relief, and the right treatment to help you feel better sooner. You should see a healthcare provider if you:

• Notice unusual sores, blisters, or painful bumps around your mouth, genitals, or other areas

• Experience tingling, burning, or itching that feels different from normal

• Have flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, or swollen glands) along with sores

• Think you may have been exposed to herpes through intimate contact

• Are pregnant or planning to conceive and have genital herpes

Since everyone's experience with herpes is unique, a consultation with a specialist can provide the personalised care you need. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical for support and guidance.

How to prevent herpes transmission

While herpes is common and manageable, taking steps to reduce transmission can protect both you and your partner. Here's what you can do to lower your risk.

• If you don’t have herpes: 

  • Practice safe intercourse by using condoms or dental dams

  • Avoid intimate contact when your partner has visible sores or symptoms

  • Ask partners about their sexual health history

  • Consider regular STI screening if you're sexually active

  • Don't share personal items like lip balm, utensils, or razors

  • Wash your hands regularly, especially after touching affected areas

• If you have herpes: 

  • Use condoms consistently, even when you don't have visible sores (the virus can still spread through asymptomatic shedding)

  • Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks or when you notice early warning signs like tingling

  • Take daily antiviral medication (suppressive therapy) to reduce transmission risk

  • Have an open, honest conversation with your partner about your diagnosis

  • Avoid kissing if you have oral herpes sores

• For pregnant women:

  • If you have genital herpes and are pregnant or planning to conceive, speak with your healthcare provider. They can help manage your condition safely to protect your baby during pregnancy and delivery.

FAQ

Can herpes be cured?

Is herpes an STI?

What can be mistaken for herpes?

What cream can be used for herpes?

Aciclovir cream works well when you apply it at the first sign of symptoms like that telltale tingling or burning. Your doctor can help you find what works best for your situation.

How can you get rid of herpes sores quickly?

The fastest way is to start antiviral medication like aciclovir as soon as you feel symptoms coming on. It helps sores heal quicker and eases the discomfort while you recover.

Can you live a normal life with herpes?

Absolutely. Many people live full, active lives whilst managing herpes. You can still have healthy relationships, enjoy intimacy, pursue your goals, and have children with proper medical support. The diagnosis might feel overwhelming at first, but with the right care, herpes becomes just a small part of your life, not something that defines you. You can live fully and confidently.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.