Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Tests & Treatment Kathmandu
What is Genital Herpes?
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2), affecting millions worldwide including Kathmandu, Nepal. While HSV-2 causes ~90% of cases, HSV-1 increasingly causes genital infections through oral-genital contact WHO Factsheet. At Derma Clinic Kathmandu, we provide confidential HSV testing (IgG/IgM) diagnosis, and antiviral treatment to manage symptoms and reduce transmission.
Genital herpes infection remains lifelong in nerve cells but becomes manageable with treatment. The virus enters through skin or mucous membranes during sexual contact, then travels to sensory nerves where it establishes latency.
- Primary infection (first episode): Most severe, lasting 2-4 weeks
- Recurrent outbreaks: Milder, shorter (3-7 days), occur 4x/year on average
Asymptomatic shedding: Virus spreads without visible sores (70% of transmissions)
Symptoms and Stages of Genital Herpes
Prodrome (1-2 days before sores): Itching, tingling, burning in genital area.
Early Symptoms in Men
- Small red bumps → fluid-filled blisters on penis, scrotum, thighs
- Painful ulcers after blisters rupture (3-7 days to heal)
Painful urination, swollen inguinal lymph nodes
Early Symptoms in Women
- Blisters on vulva, vagina, cervix, anus
- Vaginal discharge, severe dyspareunia
- Flu-like symptoms more common (fever, fatigue)
First episode complications: Urinary retention (5%), aseptic meningitis (rare)
Skin Rashes: The rash may appear as small red bumps or white blisters, eventually forming painful ulcers.
Incubation Period
The virus usually shows symptoms 2 to 12 days after exposure (Average 4 Days), though some people may remain asymptomatic.
Test for Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is diagnosed through:
- Symptoms and Skin Rashes.
- Blood Tests (HSV2 ,IgG,IgM) : Identifies antibodies to HSV, even if symptoms aren’t present.
- PCR can also be recommended but it takes time and cost higher.
Price For Herpes testing:
Genital Herpes test HSV 1 IgG and IgM , HSV 2 IgG and IgM costs Rs 3600.
Please note Doctor can recommended other Serology Test along with Herpes test.
Test Results:
HSV2 IgG Reactive: You have already Been Infected by Herpes Before.
HSV2 IgM Reactive: You Have active Herpes Infection.
- Positive Blood Test: Suggests past or current infection.
Treatment Options for Genital Herpes
Doctor will start treatment if necessary after your test reports. Antiviral drugs like Acyclovir , Valacyclovir , Famciclovir will be prescribed after consultation or after reports depending upon condition by venereologist Dr. Utsav Sharma.
Complications of Untreated Genital Herpes
- Recurrent outbreaks: The virus can reactivate, causing repeated episodes.
- Increased risk of other STIs: Open sores can make you more susceptible to HIV and other infections.
- Transmission risk: Without treatment, you can unknowingly pass herpes to a sexual partner.
Prevention
Prevent genital herpes transmission with these evidence-based strategies:
- Daily suppressive therapy Oral Antiviral reduces shedding by 48% – ideal for couples
- Condoms + antivirals = 75%+ protection (covers condoms’ 50% limitation)
- Avoid contact during prodrome/outbreaks (tingling phase most contagious)
- Disclose status – 70% transmissions from unaware partners
- Test before monogamy – 87% HSV-2 carriers have no symptoms
Kathmandu tip: Start prevention at Derma Clinic’s Herpes screening package (Rs 3600). Call 9801358600
Frequently Asked Questions About Genital Herpes
1. Is genital herpes curable?
No, herpes simplex virus (HSV) remains lifelong in nerve cells, but antiviral medications effectively control outbreaks and reduce transmission risk by 48-50% with daily suppressive therapy.
2. How long does genital herpes last?
First outbreak: 2-4 weeks untreated, 7-10 days with antivirals. Recurrent episodes: 3-7 days, becoming less frequent over time (average 4 outbreaks/year initially).
3. Can I get herpes from oral sex?
Yes, HSV-1 from oral-genital contact causes 30-50% of new genital herpes cases. HSV-2 oral transmission is rare but possible.
4. How do you know if you have genital herpes?
Look for prodrome (tingling/itching) followed by blisters/ulcers. Confirm with PCR swab (95% accurate) from lesions or HSV IgG blood test for past infection.
5. Can I have herpes and not know it?
Yes, 80-90% of HSV-2 carriers are asymptomatic. Virus sheds without sores in 10-20% of days, causing 70% of transmissions.
6. Does genital herpes go away on its own?
Outbreaks heal naturally (2-4 weeks first episode), but the virus stays latent forever. Untreated recurrences average 4x/year.
7. Can you get genital herpes from kissing?
No, kissing transmits oral herpes (HSV-1). Genital herpes requires genital/oral-genital contact.
8. How soon after exposure do herpes symptoms appear?
Incubation period: 2-12 days (average 4 days). PCR detects virus before symptoms in most cases.
9. Can I pass herpes to my baby during pregnancy?
Risk highest with first episode near delivery (30-50% transmission). C-section recommended if active lesions present. Suppressive therapy from 36 weeks reduces risk as suggested By Mayo Clinic
10. Is herpes testing available in Kathmandu?
Yes, Derma Clinic offers confidential HSV-1/HSV-2 PCR swabs (same-day) and IgG/IgM blood tests. Call 9801358600 for appointment.
11. Can I get herpes from a toilet seat?
No, HSV dies quickly outside the body. Transmission requires direct skin-to-skin contact during viral shedding.
12. How effective are condoms against herpes?
Condoms reduce risk by ~50% but don’t cover all shedding areas (scrotum, thighs). Combine with antivirals for 75%+ protection.
13. Will herpes show up on an STD panel?
Standard panels often miss herpes (no routine screening). Request specific HSV-1/HSV-2 IgG testing for accurate status.
14. Can stress trigger herpes outbreaks?
Yes, stress is the #1 trigger (48% of patients), followed by illness, menstruation, and friction.
Act Now Before It’s Too Late!
If you suspect you have genital herpes or have been exposed, seek immediate testing and treatment at Derma Clinic . Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help manage symptoms effectively. Don’t wait—book your appointment with Dr. Utsav Sharma today!
Location and Google Map:
Derma Clinic
4th Floor Bishal Bhawan
Basundhara Chowki
Phone: 9801358600
