Genital herpesis asexually transmitted infection(STI) that causes painful fluid-filled bumps to form in the genital area.
Some people may not have recurrent symptoms or outbreaks.
Genital herpes is incurable, but there are many treatment options available to help manage outbreaks.
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This article discusses the various types of treatments available for people with genital herpes.
However, they will not treat the outbreak itself.
Outbreak frequency varies greatly from person to person.
Usually, outbreaks are more common during the first year and become less frequent over time.
One of the most important lifestyle changes to implement is practicing safer sex.
Even though a person may not have symptoms, they can still spread genital herpes.
Your diet may also play a role in outbreaks.
These include:
Supplements
Certain supplements may help reduce how often a person experiences genital herpes symptoms.
Zinccan either reduce the number of outbreaks a person experiences or help with symptoms during an outbreak.
How Long Do Herpes Outbreaks Last?
The first time a person experiences a herpes outbreak, it can last anywhere from two to four weeks.
Medications
Antiviral medicationsare the first-choice form of treatment for people with genital herpes.
They are used to reduce symptoms as well as the duration and frequency of outbreaks.
The first line antiviral chosen to treat genital herpes is the antiviral medicationAcyclovir.
How Long Do I Have to Take Medication For?
There are two ways you’re free to take medication for genital herpes.
The choice will be yours when you begin treatment.
There are many available treatments designed to relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency and duration of outbreaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Over-the-counter creams should not be used for genital herpes except for Abreva.
It is the only herpes virus cream approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Any other creams you use should be prescribed or given the go-ahead by your healthcare provider.
There are various things that can trigger genital herpes outbreaks depending on the person.
One major trigger is emotional or physical stress.
Other triggers can include fatigue, injuries, or irritation in the genital area.
There is no set time that a person will have herpes sores.
That said, the average length of time a person experiences an outbreak is roughly three to seven days.
The first outbreak, however, lasts much longer at two to four weeks.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital herpes.
Medline Plus.Genital herpes - self-care.
American Sexual Health Organization.Herpes signs and symptoms.
Sauerbrei A.Herpes genitalis: diagnosis, treatment and prevention.Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd.2016;76(12):1310-1317. doi:10.1055/s-0042-116494
