What causes the sexually transmitted infection Herpes and how is it normally treated?

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection very similar to syphilis but with one notable difference - pain.

The herpes virus is transmitted through broken areas of skin, usually in the lips, mouth or genitals, and causes very painful sores or blisters. Type I of the virus infects the mouth and results in cold sores. Type II infects the genitals and leads to vaginal itching followed by painful blisters around the anus and vagina.

Unfortunately and somewhat surprisingly, herpes cannot be fully cured. Antibiotics and painkillers can effectively treat the infection in the short term but they cannot guarantee protection from a recurrence at a later date.

However, it is important for women in particular to seek treatment for herpes because it can have a damaging affect on the cervix (the lower portion of your uterus). Experts believe there may be a relationship between a herpes infection and cervical cancer.

The herpes virus is even more of a threat to pregnant woman as it can serious harm to an unborn baby, in some cases even death.

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