ExploreSexual health
Genital herpes (HSV)
Herpes is very common and often carries more stigma than medical seriousness. Many people have no symptoms or mild ones. Antivirals shorten and reduce episodes.
Common symptoms
- Tingling then small painful blisters or ulcers
- Stinging when urine touches a sore
- Flu-like feeling with a first episode
- Often no symptoms
Useful to track
- Episode dates and triggers
- Prodrome tingling
- Healing time
- Medication effect
Tests and conversations that may be relevant
- Swab of an active sore (the most useful test)
- Blood tests for herpes are generally not recommended for screening in Australia because they cannot tell you where or when
- Not part of a routine STI panel
When to see a GP or specialist
- A first episode — antivirals work best started early
- Frequent recurrences
- Pregnancy with a history of herpes
Urgent warning signs
- Inability to pass urine
- Severe headache, neck stiffness or confusion
- Sores with high fever
In Australia, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Questions to take to a clinician
- Should this sore be swabbed now?
- Is suppressive treatment right for me?
- What should I tell partners, and when?
Related
eophi shares general information reviewed against Australian guidance. It never diagnoses. If something feels urgent, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.