Genital herpes – symptoms, transmission, protection & treatment

Genital herpes, also known as herpes genitalis or herpes simplex genitalis, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the infection remains in the body for life and can flare up repeatedly. Many people do not notice the infection at first, as herpes can be transmitted even without symptoms.

Important facts about genital herpes:

• Two types of herpes can cause genital herpes: HSV-1 (often cold sores, but also genital infections) & HSV-2 (mainly genital herpes).
• Herpes remains in the body for life – the virus can be reactivated by various factors such as stress, a weak immune system, or hormonal changes.
• There is no complete cure, but the symptoms can be treated and outbreaks reduced.
• Condoms reduce the risk but do not offer complete protection, as the virus is transmitted through skin contact.

Since many people unknowingly carry the virus, it is important to be aware of protective measures and symptoms. You can find out more on sexually transmitted infections and protective measures in our helpful overview.

Herpes transmission routes: How do you get infected?

Genital herpes is transmitted through direct skin or mucous membrane contact with infected areas. It is not only visible herpes blisters that are contagious – the virus can also be passed on even without symptoms.

• Sexual transmission: Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex is the most common risk.
• Transmission through oral sex: Cold sores (HSV-1) can be transmitted to the genital area.
• Smear infection: Contact with infected skin areas or fluids (e.g., by touching a herpes blister and then coming into contact with the mucous membranes).
• Transmission from mother to child: Herpes can be dangerous for newborns during childbirth.

Are cold sores and genital herpes the same thing?

No, cold sores and genital herpes are caused by two different types of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), even though they are similar in some respects. Both types of virus are highly contagious and remain in the body for life, but can occur in different parts of the body.

• HSV-1 (herpes simplex type 1) is mainly responsible for cold sores (herpes labialis), but can also cause genital herpes if the virus is transmitted through oral sex, for example.
• HSV-2 (herpes simplex type 2) is the most common cause of genital herpes (herpes genitalis), but occurs less frequently in the mouth area.

Both types of herpes can be transmitted through direct skin contact. This means someone with cold sores can cause a genital infection through oral sex – and vice versa.

Can genital herpes be transmitted via the toilet?

No, transmission of genital herpes via toilet seats, towels, or shared objects is extremely unlikely.

• The herpes virus only survives very briefly outside the body, as it depends on direct skin contact.
• Most infections occur through direct mucous membrane contact, i.e., during sexual intercourse, oral sex, or smear infections through contact with infected skin areas.
• Even transmission through shared towels or bedding is extremely rare, as the virus does not remain active for long without physical contact.

Important: Anyone who has an active herpes outbreak should take care not to touch any open blisters and must wash their hands regularly to avoid smear infection.

Genital herpes symptoms & possible consequences

How do I know if I have genital herpes?

Genital herpes can manifest itself in different ways—some people have clear symptoms, while others notice little or no discomfort. This makes the infection particularly treacherous, as the virus can be transmitted even without visible signs.

The first symptoms usually appear 2 to 12 days after infection, but can also occur months or years later. The first herpes outbreak is often particularly intense, while later reactivations are usually milder.

Initial stage of herpes: the first signs

Many people notice a tingling or itching sensation in the genital area before the actual outbreak, which can be an early warning sign.

• Tingling, itching, or burning in the genital area
• Skin rash or redness
• General malaise, fever, swollen lymph nodes

Main symptoms of a herpes outbreak

A few days after the first signs appear, painful blisters filled with infectious fluid may form.

• Painful herpes blisters filled with clear or milky fluid
• Open sores after the blisters burst – these can ooze and hurt
• Burning or pain when urinating (especially in women) when urine makes contact with the sore skin
• Unpleasant pressure or itching, especially in the genital area, anus, or thighs

How long is herpes contagious?

Herpes is particularly contagious as long as there are blisters on the skin filled with fluid, as they contain large amounts of the virus.

• The risk of infection is highest when the blisters burst and open sores develop.
• Once the sores heal and scabs form, the risk of infection decreases.
• But beware: the virus can still be transmitted during symptom-free phases (known as "asymptomatic viral shedding").

This means that even if no blisters are visible, herpes can still be contagious. It is therefore important to use protective measures such as condoms and to refrain from sex at the first signs of infection.

Prevention & protection: How can you protect yourself from herpes?

Since herpes is transmitted through direct skin contact, condoms offer only limited protection. Nevertheless, they are one of the most important measures for reducing the risk of infection.

• Use condoms and dental dams to reduce contact with infected skin areas.
• Avoid direct contact with herpes blisters – refrain from sex during an active outbreak.
• Wash your hands after touching infected areas to avoid smear infection.
• Avoid stress – stress can trigger herpes reactivation.

Herpes specifics: triggers for reactivation

Once infected, the herpes simplex virus (HSV) remains in the body for life. After an initial outbreak, the virus retreats into the nerve cells, where it can lie dormant – often for months or even years.

However, the virus can be reactivated at any time if certain triggers weaken the immune system or irritate the nerves. Some people rarely or never have recurrent outbreaks, while others suffer from them regularly.

Possible triggers for a herpes recurrence include:

• Stress and lack of sleep – these impair the immune system and can trigger a herpes outbreak.
• Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation or pregnancy) – can influence virus activity.
• Weakened immune system – e.g., due to colds, other infections, or chronic diseases.
• UV radiation & sunburn – a common trigger, especially for cold sores.

Herpes and pregnancy: risks for the baby?

Genital herpes can be dangerous for the baby during pregnancy and childbirth, as newborns have an immature immune system and herpes infections can be severe.

• Existing infection: If the mother has been infected for a long time, there is usually no great risk, as the baby is partially protected by maternal antibodies.
• First infection during pregnancy: This is particularly risky in the last trimester of pregnancy, as the baby's immune system is not yet sufficiently protected.
• Transmission during birth: If the mother has an active herpes outbreak at the time of birth, the virus can be passed on to the baby and cause neonatal herpes infection (herpes neonatorum).

A cesarean section is recommended if there is an active outbreak at the time of birth to minimize the risk of transmission. In some cases, antiviral therapy in the last weeks of pregnancy can also help reduce the risk of an outbreak.

Common mistakes in condom use & herpes protection

There are many misconceptions about herpes that cause people to feel insecure or not protect themselves properly. Here are some of the most common myths—and the truth behind them:

• "Condoms offer 100% protection against herpes." – Wrong! Herpes can also be transmitted through skin contact outside the covered area.
• "Herpes is only contagious when blisters are visible." – False! The virus can be transmitted even during symptom-free phases.
• "Cold sores and genital herpes are two completely different diseases." – False! Both types of herpes can occur in different parts of the body.

Condoms reduce the risk but do not offer complete protection. Anyone with herpes should watch out for warning signs such as tingling or itching and avoid close skin contact during an active outbreak. To protect yourself, you can find more tips on how to use condoms correctly on our blog.

Genital herpes test & treatment: What to do if you suspect you have it?

There is no routine test for herpes, as the virus often remains asymptomatic. However, anyone who notices unusual symptoms in the genital area or has had contact with an infected person should consult a doctor.

How is genital herpes tested?

A doctor can diagnose herpes based on symptoms and physical examinations. In some cases, a test is performed:

• Swab from a herpes blister – taken directly from the infected area of skin, which is particularly reliable for fresh blisters.
• Blood test for HSV antibodies – shows whether there has been a previous infection, but is not always indicative of a current outbreak.
• PCR test – can detect the virus, but is usually only used in special cases.

Important: Many people carry the herpes virus without symptoms – a positive antibody test does not necessarily mean that there is an active infection.

How is genital herpes treated?

Since herpes cannot be cured, treatment aims to relieve symptoms and shorten outbreaks.

• Antiviral medications (tablets or creams) – inhibit virus replication and can also have a preventive effect when taken regularly.
• Ointments for cold sores – reduce pain, accelerate healing, and prevent further spread.
• Home remedies, such as cooling or zinc ointment – can help to relieve itching and inflammation.

A complete cure is not possible, but medication can significantly reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks. Those who suffer from frequent outbreaks of herpes can talk to their doctor about long-term therapy to minimize recurrence.

Protect yourself from genital herpes

Genital herpes is widespread and can be passed on even without symptoms. Conscious use of protective measures and early treatment help to minimize the risk.

• Use condoms and dental dams to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Watch for symptoms and see a doctor immediately if you suspect you have an infection.
• Avoid stress and immune deficiency to reduce outbreaks.

Practice safe sex and try the Wingman sample pack now – for maximum protection and comfort!