Genital herpes is a viral infection and it’s transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal, and anal sex as part of the herpes simplex virus. A cold sore, for instance, is a part of the herpes simplex virus group. You can also get the sore around the genital area as well.

Symptoms can include redness and a tingling in the infected areas, sores and discharge. Outbreaks can repeat several times a year.

Usually when you get your first outbreak of herpes, it could be very painful and it can last quite a while. The first outbreak is always the worst. Repeat outbreaks after that become less frequent and less severe. You can carry herpes for quite a long period without knowing it.

The treatment is Zovirax.