Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection is the most common ulcerative STI in the UK.

Protect yourself

Protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections by using a condom every time you have sex.

Symptoms

Symptoms can start with mild soreness and groups of small painful blisters appearing on the genitals and surrounding areas. These can quickly break to form shallow painful lesions or ulcers. Sometimes people have flu-like symptoms and pains in the groin and down the legs.

Treatment

Early treatment is advisable with a course of antiviral tablets. Treatment helps to shorten the time you are unwell and works best if taken as quickly as possible after symptoms start. Treatment is not a cure and repeat attacks are possible.

Visit one of our clinics to be treated for Genital Herpes and get tested for other STIs.

Talk to us

Contact a sexual health professional in confidence (available Monday to Friday, 2pm to 4pm). Visit the NHS website to find out more.