Genital herpes, which is transmitted by sexual activity, has increased significantly in the US with increased numbers of sexual partners in the last 3 decades. Experts estimate that about one out of four people in the US over the age of 30 are infected with genital herpes. The virus is more easily transmitted to women than men with the greater risk of skin breakage in vaginal tissues with intercourse, making exposure more efficient. Rates also correlate with number of sexual partners.

Having unprotected sex or having sex with multiple partners, puts you at risk for acquiring HSV. As this is true for any sexually transmitted disease, knowing your partners health status and using condoms correctly and consistently can help reduce your risk for acquiring HSV. The trouble with HSV is that the virus also can shed from the skin surrounding the genitals such as the groin and thighs, so even using condoms properly does not prevent exposure to these areas that can also transmit virus.

Newborn infection is a special risk, particularly if the mother had her first infection in middle or late pregnancy compared to those born to mothers with an outbreak from a longstanding infection. The risk of newborn infection is increased in premature births if birth is delayed too long after membranes have ruptured. Using fetal scalp monitors to track heartbeat can also increase the likelihood of transmission, as the scalp becomes punctured while electrodes are being attached.

1. What is Herpes? Why do some people believe it's spread by sex, and some don't? What's the difference between Genital Herpes and Herpes Simplex? What's the difference between HSV1 and HSV2?
2. What does genital herpes HSV2 look like and feel like?
3. How can you get HSV2 Genital Herpes? Can condoms protect me completely from Genital Herpes HSV2? What behaviors put me at more risk of getting HSV2 Genital Herpes? Are newborns at greater risk of getting HSV2 genital herpes?
4. How can I find out if I have Genital Herpes HSV2? What tests are used to find out if I have Genital Herpes HSV2? Where can I go to get tested to see if I have Genital Herpes HSV2?
5. What are other diseases that look like Genital Herpes HSV2? What are the other possible reasons for this genital rash that I just found?
6. How contagious am I with an outbreak of genital herpes HSV2? How long can I spread genital herpes HSV2 with an active genital rash?
7. What can I expect in the future with this rash? How often am I going to get this rash recur?
8. When should I think about seeking care?
9. What are the available treatments for Genital Herpes HSV2? How do you treat genital herpes?