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Health library/Genital Herpes

Sexual health

Genital Herpes

Also known as: Herpes genitalis

Genital herpes is a herpes simplex virus infection that can cause recurring sores. Transmission can occur even when visible lesions are absent.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Painful genital blisters or sores
  • Burning or tingling
  • Pain with urination
  • Sometimes no symptoms

Understanding care

Clinical care may include assessment of lesions and discussion of symptom management, transmission and pregnancy risks. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Seek confidential testing for possible exposure or new symptoms; absence of symptoms does not exclude infection. Severe pelvic pain, fever or pregnancy-related concern needs prompt care.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Genital Herpes — First AID health library