Genital herpes is a common infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or 2. It can cause painful blisters or sores, but many people have mild or no symptoms. It is best diagnosed by swabbing a fresh sore. There is no cure, but antiviral medication shortens outbreaks, reduces recurrences and lowers the chance of passing it on.
- Cause
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1/HSV-2)
- Symptoms
- Blisters, sores, tingling, or none
- Best test
- Swab PCR of an active sore
- Treatment
- Antiviral tablets
- Cure
- No; outbreaks can be controlled
- Recurrences
- Often milder and less frequent over time
What is genital herpes?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is spread by skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, oral and anal sex. HSV-2 is the classic cause of genital herpes, while HSV-1, which causes cold sores, is now a frequent cause of genital infection through oral sex. After the first infection the virus stays dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate.
The virus can be passed on even when no sores are visible (asymptomatic shedding), which is why many people do not know when or from whom they acquired it.
Symptoms: first episode and recurrences
| First episode | Recurrence | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Usually 2–12 days after exposure, or much later | Unpredictable; often triggered by stress, illness, periods |
| Sores | Multiple painful blisters and ulcers | Fewer, smaller sores |
| Other symptoms | Fever, aches, swollen groin glands, pain urinating | Tingling or itching before sores appear |
| Duration | Often 2–4 weeks without treatment | Usually under 10 days |
Other conditions can cause genital sores, including syphilis, so a check is worthwhile. Wart-like growths are more often caused by HPV — see genital wart removal.
How herpes is diagnosed at Yoonho
- Come while sores are present Message us on WhatsApp or walk in; a swab is most accurate within the first few days of an outbreak.
- Examination Your doctor examines the area gently and asks about your history in English.
- Swab PCR test A swab from a sore confirms HSV and identifies the type (HSV-1 or HSV-2), which helps predict recurrences.
- Blood tests in selected cases Antibody tests can show past exposure but cannot tell where the infection is or when it was acquired, so they are used selectively.
- Screen for other STIs Testing for syphilis, HIV and others is often advised — see the STD test panel.
Treatment and managing outbreaks
Antiviral tablets such as acyclovir or valacyclovir are the standard treatment. They do not remove the virus but help in three ways:
- First-episode treatment — shortens pain and healing time; start as early as possible.
- Episodic treatment — taken at the first tingling of a recurrence.
- Suppressive treatment — taken daily for frequent recurrences; reduces outbreaks and the risk of passing HSV to a partner.
Comfort measures include salt-water bathing, loose cotton clothing, pain relief and, if passing urine stings, doing so in a warm bath.
- Painful, unpredictable outbreaks
- Uncertainty about the diagnosis
- Worry about passing it on
- Stress about telling partners
- Confirmed type guides expectations
- Antivirals aim to shorten outbreaks
- Lower transmission risk with therapy
- Many patients notice less anxiety
Herpes, relationships and pregnancy
- Avoid sex from the first tingling until sores have fully healed.
- Condoms and daily suppressive therapy each reduce the risk of transmission; together they work better.
- Telling a partner can feel difficult; your doctor can help you plan the conversation.
- If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, tell your doctor. A first infection late in pregnancy carries the highest risk to the baby, and antivirals may be recommended near delivery.
Persistent genital pain without sores has other causes; see genital pain disorders.
Cost and documents
Costs depend on the tests and medication needed; a written estimate is given after your consultation. Residents with National Health Insurance are usually covered for diagnosis and treatment of an outbreak. English results and receipts are available for travel insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Can genital herpes be cured?
No, the virus stays in the body, but antiviral medication controls outbreaks well. For many people, recurrences become milder and less frequent over time.
Should I get a herpes blood test as part of routine screening?
Routine HSV blood tests are generally not recommended for people without symptoms because results can be hard to interpret. Your doctor can discuss whether testing is useful in your situation.
Can I get herpes from a cold sore?
Yes. Oral sex with someone who has a cold sore can pass HSV-1 to the genitals.
Can I have a normal pregnancy with herpes?
Yes, most women with herpes have healthy babies. Let your doctor know so a plan, which may include antivirals late in pregnancy, can be made.
Can I get antivirals in Korea without a prescription?
Oral antivirals for herpes require a prescription in Korea. A same-day visit at Yoonho can provide a diagnosis and prescription in English.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.