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Genital herpes

Genital herpes is an STD caused by two different types of herpes simplex virus (HSV). It looks like a cold sore or blister.

While the virus is highly contagious, most people who have it don’t get the cold sores or blisters.

If you’ve been infected with genital herpes, you may find blisters around your penis, vagina, or anus. Once the blister pops, you’ll have a sore in this area. Blisters can come back every few weeks or months.

Once you’re infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2, you’ll be infected with the virus for life. However, if you’re one of the few people who get blisters/cold sores, they seem to become less frequent over time.

There are no cures for genital herpes, only ways to suppress the blisters/cold sores.

How do you get genital herpes?

You can catch genital herpes by having unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex. You can get it even if you’ve had protected sex because condoms may not cover all the areas where there are blisters. Also, you can get genital herpes from a person who’s got no blisters or sores but who’s got a herpes simplex virus infection.

How can you protect yourself from genital herpes?

You can reduce your risk of getting genital herpes by:

1. Always using condoms.
Condoms can lower your risk of getting or spreading genital herpes. However, the virus can also infect your mouth and around your lips. So if you’re having oral sex check to see if the person has a cold sore, and use a condom or dental dam to protect your genitals. Ideally, it’s best to wait until the outbreak is over before having oral sex again.

2. If you’re having a herpes outbreak, wait until it’s over to have sex. Otherwise, you’re more likely to spread the virus to your partner.

What are the signs that you’ve got genital herpes?

Most people infected with the herpes simplex virus don’t have any signs of genital herpes.

If you’ve got symptoms of genital herpes, they’re the same in women and men. The ‘cold sores’ or blisters come in a pattern. There’s the first outbreak when you first see signs of genital herpes infection, followed by recurring outbreaks.

First signs of genital herpes infection
Within the first one to three weeks after being infected with herpes simplex virus, you’ll get flu-like symptoms. These symptoms include fever, tiredness, headache, swollen glands, and aches and pains in your lower back.

You’ll also get ‘cold sores’ or blisters in your genital area, around your anus, or on your buttocks or the tops of your thighs. Where you get the blisters depends on how you’ve had sex.

These blisters:

  • May feel tingly, itchy, or even stinging to touch
  • May be small, fluid-filled
  • Usually pop within a day or two to leave small red sores
  • May cause pain when you urinate because after they pop, they’ll leave open sores
  • May last between two to four weeks

In general, your first herpes outbreak is usually the most painful. The symptoms generally clear up within two to four weeks. Some people have only one attack, while others may have several more outbreaks. With each outbreak, the symptoms of genital herpes usually become less painful.

Recurring genital herpes outbreaks can include:

  • Painful, stinging blisters filled with fluid
  • Fewer and smaller blisters/sores
  • Watery discharge
  • Pain when you urinate

If you’ve got recurring genital herpes outbreaks, they generally tend to be shorter, lasting between three to five days. Often, you’ll find you’ve got fewer and smaller sores.

Blisters/sores tend to come back when you’re tired or stressed. They may also come back when you’ve got a cold or are having your period.

Over time, you’ll probably find that you’ll have fewer outbreaks. However, this doesn’t mean you’re not infected with the herpes simplex virus. You’re still infected. It just means your body is able to clear up the infection more quickly.

How do you get tested for genital herpes?

Your doctor will examine you and take a sample from the sore and test it for genital herpes in a lab.

Blood can also be tested for the herpes simplex virus, which causes genital herpes. However, if you test positive for the herpes simplex virus, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have genital herpes. This is why the most effective method to test for genital herpes is to test the fluid in the sore when you’re having an outbreak.

How do you get rid of genital herpes?

There is no cure for genital herpes. There are only ways to speed up the healing process or relieve the discomfort caused by the blisters/sores.

You can relieve pain/ discomfort caused by genital herpes by:

  • Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the sores for 15-20 minutes at a time
  • Putting cold, wet tea bags on the sores
  • Taking cool showers
  • Applying local anaesthetic ointment
  • Taking warm salt-water baths
  • Wearing loose fitting clothes

You can speed up the healing process of genital herpes by:

Taking the antiviral medicines acyclovir, famiciclovir, or valaciclovir. 

You can only get these medications if they’ve been prescribed by your doctor. These medications shorten the duration of genital herpes’ outbreaks.

Using over-the-counter cold sore treatments from a chemist or drugstore will not work on genital herpes.

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Recent Comments (69)

    1. Hi Linda, what about the
      Hi Linda, what about the penis?

  1. pliz admin i cum too early
    pliz admin i cum too early just after inserting th penis is it okay or not

    1. Hi Gershome,

      Hi Gershome,
      It sounds like you are coming earlier than you would like, this often happens to young men who don’t have a lot of sexual experience because they get very aroused very easily. With more sexually experienced men, it might be due to psychological problems, like fear, stress or depression.
      Generally though go slow, enjoy the buildup of touching and caressing each other. Make time for oral sex during your physical interactions. Take time focusing on your partner as well as yourself. Communicate together about what feels nice, what doesn’t and what you would like to try together. Experiment, explore and try new things!
      Make sure to use lots of lube and switch up the fun. Even if you do orgasm you can take some time to have oral sex with your partner until your body is ready to go again. Change positions and mix it up.
      Some people say condoms help them last longer, while others may use cock rings (just make sure it is the right size and not too tight!).
      Generally just remember that sex is more than just penetration and there are lots of ways to enjoy each other.
      If you are finding that you really cannot maintain an erection then it might be time to see a doctor. There are some medical conditions that can affect your performance but would need to be looked by a professional.
      You can also keep masturbating, however challenge yourself to last longer. Go slow, feel the way your body changes when you are getting closer to climax. Tease yourself, find tricks that help you delay the finish.

  2. Your encouragements are the
    Your encouragements are the best…..is it normal for ayoung man of age 21yrs not to have sexual feelings

    1. Thank you!

      Thank you!
      Yes, that’s nothing to worry too much about. Maybe you are just not ready yet!

  3. are there side effects for
    are there side effects for prolonged masturbation and any goodness for this

    1. Hi Collins,

      Hi Collins,
      masturbation is a part of a healthy sex life, as far as we are concerned. It helps with sexual tension relief, relaxation and stress relief. Not to mention you’ll get to know your body. No negative side effects, so keep on going 🙂

  4. u get some are nt interested
    u get some are nt interested in sex

    1. Yes, that’s true, Felix.
      Yes, that’s true, Felix.

  5. As to me, i only go 1 or 2
    As to me, i only go 1 or 2 rounds, and it cant last longer,it is abt 2 to 3mins to release, i dnt enjoy it wat might be the problem, am 25yrz old,

  6. As to me, i only go 1 or 2
    As to me, i only go 1 or 2 rounds, and it cant last longer,it is abt 2 to 3mins to release, i dnt enjoy it wat might be the problem, am 25yrz old,

    1. Hi Elvis,

      Hi Elvis,
      This is completely normal for men to have what is called a refractory period, where it cannot get hard after ejaculation. Honestly, your body is just telling you that it needs some time. There is no real way to change it or make it happen less, so just try to work with your body. If you are really hoping to have more sex, then take the time to recharge and focus on your partner. This is a good time to focus on them and give them pleasure. You will become hard again in no time and continue.

  7. wen am with my gal ic an go
    wen am with my gal ic an go 4long without ejaculating n idont fel lik am having sex z there a problem?

    1. Hi Peter,

      Hi Peter,
      how much time do you spend on foreplay? It might be a good idea to get as aroused as possible during foreplay, that way, you might be able to ejaculate more quickly during intercourse.
      Also, you should discuss this with your partner. Tell her what you want, need and like in bed, what you would like to try, and what you are not into. Good and interesting sex is about communication as much as it is about the actual act.

  8. I cum too earlier even before
    I cum too earlier even before doing sex or before inserting the penis…once my partner promise to av sex wid me I start cumming.whats wrng wid diz?

    1. Hi Sym,

      Hi Sym,
      It sounds like you are coming earlier than you would like, this often happens to young men who don’t have a lot of sexual experience because they get very aroused very easily. With more sexually experienced men, it might be due to psychological problems, like fear, stress or depression.
      Generally though go slow, enjoy the buildup of touching and caressing each other. Make time for oral sex during your physical interactions. Take time focusing on your partner as well as yourself. Communicate together about what feels nice, what doesn’t and what you would like to try together. Experiment, explore and try new things!
      Make sure to use lots of lube and switch up the fun. Even if you do orgasm you can take some time to have oral sex with your partner until your body is ready to go again. Change positions and mix it up.
      Some people say condoms help them last longer, while others may use cock rings (just make sure it is the right size and not too tight!).
      Generally just remember that sex is more than just penetration and there are lots of ways to enjoy each other.
      If you are finding that you really cannot maintain an erection then it might be time to see a doctor. There are some medical conditions that can affect your performance but would need to be looked by a professional.
      You can also keep masturbating, however challenge yourself to last longer. Go slow, feel the way your body changes when you are getting closer to climax. Tease yourself, find tricks that help you delay the finish.

  9. M 21yrs old and m still a
    M 21yrs old and m still a virginboy…but what shows virginity in males?

    1. Hi Kelvin,

      Hi Kelvin,
      there is only one way to find out if someone (man or woman) is a virgin- ask them.

  10. Hi Admin,I actually dont
    Hi Admin,I actually dont experience sexual pleasure when making love and sometimes its even painful, is it normal? #21yrs

    1. Hi Shieh,

      Hi Shieh,
      sorry we have to ask (we are not sure from your name, sorry!), but are you a man or a woman?

  11. i would like to know whether
    i would like to know whether there is a remedy or treatment for already sagged womans boobs. thanks.

    1. Hi Jack,

      Hi Jack,
      there is little to do. Exercise to strengthen the muscles underneath can help a bit. Creams and massages can help a little bit, but don’t expect miracles.

  12. can fingering my girlfrend
    can fingering my girlfrend will make him reach orgasm

    1. Hi Dennis,

      Hi Dennis,
      yes, absolutely, especially if you touch the clitoris as well.

  13. hi.i av longed to have a
    hi.i av longed to have a monster dick fucking me..the desire influenced me so much that i bought a very big dildo tharlt i want to try on my self cz i cud get the perfect man for that…is t normal to desire for such things

    1. Hi Queen,

      Hi Queen,
      if this is what you want, go for it.
      Keep in mind that the size of the penis usually doesn’t influence a woman’s pleasure. Clitoral stimulation does.

  14. I keep comparing (in my mind
    I keep comparing (in my mind at least) my newly wedded wife to my ex-girlfriend whom i believe was better in bed. My ex was very juicy and enjoyed sex just like me while my wife is very dry and doesn’t enjoy sex at all. What can I do to stop my weird thinking every time i make love to my wife?

    1. Hi there,

      Hi there,
      good sex is about communication. Maybe your new wife isnt’ very experienced or shy.
      Talk to her. Talk about what you both want and need in bed, and what is missing at the moment. Be gentle, make suggestions, and, most of all, make sure she is comfortable.

  15. Am a 30 year old man. Some
    Am a 30 year old man. Some answers you give to certain questions are irrelevant. It appears you are in a hurry? It would be prudent to analyze each question well for satisfactory answers! For example this guy Peter, see how u replied him!

    The question:
    peter
    Tue, 11/18/2014 – 12:22
    wen am with my gal i can go 4long without ejaculating n i dont fel lik am having sex z there a problem?

    Your answer:
    Love Matters
    Tue, 11/18/2014 – 14:51

    “Hi Peter, It sounds like you are coming earlier than you would like, this often happens to young men who don’t have a lot of sexual experience because they get very aroused very easily.”

    So misleading! My comments are only corrective and not necessarily meant to discredit an otherwise a good job you guys are doing!

    1. Edwin,

      Edwin,
      we get up to 200 questions a day and nobody to answer them full-time, so yes, we do make mistakes. Thank you for pointing it out, we will change our answer.

  16. I think having sex wit
    I think having sex wit sameone u r in love is more fun….

    1. Thanks for your input, Karen!
      Thanks for your input, Karen!

  17. I find my hubby boring in bed
    I find my hubby boring in bed ‘coz in most cases his dik dasnt rise to the occasion n am a one man gal.I really don’t knw how to help him or kud it b that he find me boring too

    1. Moniq,

      Moniq,
      could your hubby have erectile dysfunction?
      http://lovematters.co.ke/news/erectile-dysfunction-top-five-facts
      See if that’s of any help.
      Secondly, sex isn’t only about intercourse. Even if your husband can’t get an erection, there are other things he can do to satisfy you, oral sex for example.
      You need to talk to him. Sex is about communication as much as it as about the actual act.

  18. I have small peniz n am stil
    I have small peniz n am stil vargin coz i fear that i havee small thing that i may not satizfy her, wat can i do?any drug that increaze thee penizs size or any position of sex that will make her satizfy.

    1. Ron,

      Ron,
      Why are you low esteem on your penis size? Are you worried you are not performing well in bed? Normally performance issues have more to do with confidence than penis size.

      Not to mention that size is relative. What is big for some is small for others and vise versa. Everyone’s bodies are different and it is more about how they come together, not stand alone. Sex is pleasurable when there is a chemistry between two people, when emotions are being shared and good communication. Tell your partner what feels good and what doesn’t. Experiment, you never know what will happen until you try and communication always leads to better sex.

      Check out these articles about penis size and love making:
      https://lovematters.co.ke/resource/penis-shapes-and-sizes

      http://lovematters.co.ke/news/big-penis-what-women-want

      http://lovematters.co.ke/news/erections-vary-size-and-angle

      https://lovematters.co.ke/news/penises-enlarge-or-not-enlarge

  19. hw kan i knw a man s a virgin
    hw kan i knw a man s a virgin

    1. Liz,

      Liz,
      it doesn’t matter if it’s a man or a woman, the only way to find out if someone has had sex before is by asking them and believing their answer.

    1. Kenn,

      Kenn,
      masturbation is a normal part of a healthy sex life.
      It helps with getting to know your body, with relaxation, and of course, gives you sexual pleasure.

  20. Y do men sweat while doing
    Y do men sweat while doing sex?

    1. Because it’s like exercise-
      Because it’s like exercise- when you move and use strength, you will sweat.

  21. Hae..Am 24yrs n I’ve never
    Hae..Am 24yrs n I’ve never cum at all,could it be normal?

    1. Shiru,

      Shiru,
      sorry, we are not quite sure from your name, are you a woman or a man?

  22. hi love matters can
    hi love matters can masterbstion affect u negatively whn having sex with ua partner

    1. Hi Dennis,

      Hi Dennis,
      no. Masturbation is a normal part of a healthy sex life.
      However, if you are used to masturbating and you have little sex, then getting used to the different sensations might take some time.

  23. its good to have sex yes or
    its good to have sex yes or no

    1. There is no yes-or-no answer
      There is no yes-or-no answer for this question.
      Yes, sex is good for you. But it’s only good if there is consent, if both partners know and agree to what is happening. It’s not good if it’s painful, or if you are not healthy.
      So it will all depend on the situation you are in.

  24. Yes the discussion is nice
    Yes the discussion is nice but i have one problem, most of the time when i am on bed with my partner the moment i insert the penis i realise faster and the penis relaxes for long even two ours and my partners is in need help me what should i do

  25. hello, i was once heartbroken
    hello, i was once heartbroken..i felt like i should not date , then after long time i started to date but the previous breakup affected my sexual life …any time i had sex and recall what happened..i loose my erection…it has disturbed me …how can this be treated..?.. i need to enjoy my sex life.. pliz help..

    1. Davido,

      Davido,
      maybe you were just not yet over her?
      Give yourself time to grief and completely get over your last relationship. Only then should you start thinking about dating again.

  26. Wat can I do to make my man
    Wat can I do to make my man reach the climax

    1. Shani,

      Shani,
      use your hands and or mouth on his genitals or have intercourse.
      Have you had sex yet?

  27. wat can make a gal satisfied
    wat can make a gal satisfied in bed

    1. Lots of gentle stimulation of
      Lots of gentle stimulation of the clitoris.

  28. hi.my boyfriend is 26 years
    hi.my boyfriend is 26 years and he says he is still a virgin.we tried kissing and it felt weird cz am experienced i felt lke he did the wrong way…we have been together for 6 months and i recently told him i wont mind us having sex..he was shy at 1st but he promised we will have a date…how do i teach him hw it should be in bed??

    1. Angel,

      Angel,
      show him, tell him, guide him.
      Good sex is about communication- and the more you talk about it, the better it will be.

  29. hi plz am very dry wen having
    hi plz am very dry wen having wat can i do

    1. Moniq,

      Moniq,
      what is your partner doing to get you aroused? Is he paying plenty of attention to your clitoris and other hotspot? Are you spending enough time on foreplay? Or too much, maybe?
      If none of this helps, you can try extra lubricants, which you can buy at most chemists and supermarkets.

  30. I dont feel anything for the
    I dont feel anything for the first round but immediately he releases, that is the time I want him to fuck me. It normal?

    1. Hi Rose it takes time for a
      Hi Rose it takes time for a woman to be aroused. You should probably try some prolonged foreplay in order for you to be aroused enough for sex. Talk to your partner about this to get the best option for you to enjoy sex more. Check out this article to learn more https://lovematters.co.ke/news/deepest-sex-secrets .

  31. I stare, like dream only the
    I stare, like dream only the married women and feel bad after having sex with them how would i turn my attention from them

    1. Having sex is a decision one
      Having sex is a decision one makes. So you make a decision not to have sex with people or persons you are not comfortable having sex with.

  32. Pls am a married woman Nd I
    Pls am a married woman Nd I was a virgin wen I got married. My problem is dat my hubby is not a romantic man at all, he had rejected me on several occasions Nd eva since we married I neva enjoy sex 4 once cos he is alwz quick in sex. Pls wot is happening Nd wot do I do.

  33. Hi! I masturbate once or
    Hi! I masturbate once or twice a week and if i dont i wet dream. Is it hygienic to my health?

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