Herpes is one of the most common STDs in Singapore. This contagious viral infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Patients infected with the virus will experience painful and itchy blisters periodically, which can affect their day-to-day activities. If the condition worsens, the infection may even lead to fatal complications for pregnant women, newborns, and those who possess a weak immune system.
The herpes simplex virus family consists of two members – HSV-1 and HSV-2 – each responsible for an outbreak of herpes in different regions of your body. HSV-1, commonly referred to as oral herpes, causes blisters and cold sores to form around one’s face and mouth, while HSV-2 leads to genital herpes outbreaks.
While many are aware that herpes can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, they may not be aware that it can also be transmitted through kissing or childbirth. This is why it is crucial for people who are sexually active to undergo regular STD testing to safeguard their sexual health.
Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for herpes. However, it is not the end of the world if one is diagnosed with the disease, as medication can ease your symptoms, allowing you to live a perfectly healthy life.
Genital herpes vs. oral herpes
As we have shared, the two viruses, HSV-1 and HSV-2, are responsible for different classifications of herpes.
Each strain of HSV typically develops around a specific area. However, even if you avoid particular activities, such as oral sex or kissing, it is still possible to acquire either virus strain.
For example, you might contract HSV-1 on your genitals if someone with sores on their lips performs oral sex on you. Conversely, you might contract HSV-2 around the oral region if you perform oral sex on someone infected with HSV-2.
How does herpes spread?
Herpes is most commonly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, often through sexual intercourse. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be exposed to an infected person’s bodily fluid to contract herpes. All that is needed to transmit the virus is a quick touch of the infected area.
Your genital region, mouth, and eyes are the most vulnerable areas where you might get infected with HSV. However, it is also possible to be infected in other areas of your body if you have open wounds, such as a cut, rash, or burn.
Herpes can also be spread through other means, like kissing or sharing personal objects, such as towels, straws, or utensils. Other instances include mothers passing the virus to their baby during vaginal childbirth, although such cases are rare. Gynaecologists or obstetricians usually take extra precautions during such cases, as herpes poses a severe health risk for infants.
There is some small comfort as the virus does not generally do well outside the body, so you cannot contract herpes from holding hands, hugging, or sharing a toilet seat with an infected person.
What are the symptoms of herpes?
The most common symptom an infected person will experience is the formation of sores around their mouth or genitals. However, that is not the only symptom one can expect. But often, many people do not realise they are infected with herpes until it is too late.
This is because those who are infected might not even experience any symptoms immediately upon infection. Some might take days, weeks, or even years before they develop any warning signs.
Some of the common symptoms of oral herpes include:
Some of the common symptoms of genital herpes include:
Conclusion
Having herpes is not a death sentence. With proper treatment, you can still live a perfectly normal and healthy life. However, early detection is crucial to ensure the condition does not worsen before appropriate treatment can be administered.
The only way to know if you have been infected with herpes is to undergo regular STD screenings. So if you are sexually active or noticed sores developing on or around your oral or genital region, do seek out the advice of a medical professional as soon as you can.
At Elyon Clinic, our patient’s privacy is one of our utmost priorities. Our consultations are treated with the utmost privacy and confidentiality to provide our patients with peace of mind. If you suspect you are at risk of contracting an STD, do not hesitate to contact us at 6802 7208 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible!
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