Genital herpes (HSV)
Request an online visit for Genital herpes (HSV). A licensed provider reviews your case and prescribes treatment when appropriate.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed June 2026
About Genital herpes (HSV)
Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 and increasingly by type 1. After primary infection, the virus remains latent in sacral ganglia and reactivates periodically as clusters of painful vesicles or ulcers, often with prodromal tingling. Many infections are subclinical, and shedding can occur without visible lesions. Diagnosis is confirmed by PCR or culture of a lesion. Antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) shortens episodes and, when taken daily as suppression, markedly reduces recurrences and transmission to partners.
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Reference only. Not a substitute for medical advice. Not appropriate for emergencies or controlled substances.