Genital herpes

• Signs and symptoms
• Getting it
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Looking after you & your partner
• Long-term effects

Taking care of yourself and your partner

During an episode of herpes, the blisters and sores are highly infectious and the virus can be passed on to others by direct contact. To prevent this from happening you should avoid:

• Kissing when you or your partner have cold sores around the mouth.
• Having oral sex when you or your partner have mouth or genital sores.
• Having any genital or anal contact, even with a condom, when you or your partner have genital sores.
• Using saliva to wet contact lenses if you have sores around your mouth.

If you have frequent episodes of herpes, you should go to your local sexually health (GUM) clinic to discuss possible treatments. Treatment isn't always necessary, but it's best to check.

Where to get help