Overview
Genital herpes is managed rather than cured. Antiviral medication can shorten episodes or reduce recurrences, while counseling helps with transmission risk and disclosure.
Treatment approach
Antiviral therapy for episodes or suppression, plus counseling.
Common management options
- Episodic antiviral treatment
- Daily suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences
- Counseling on transmission and disclosure
Medical supervision
A clinician helps choose episodic versus suppressive therapy based on recurrence frequency and preferences.
Partner considerations
Partners may benefit from counseling and testing; transmission risk is highest during outbreaks.
Follow-up
Review recurrence frequency and adjust therapy as needed.
Key points
- Managed, not cured
- Antivirals reduce symptoms
- Suppressive therapy may help
- Disclosure support matters
When to seek care
- Recurrent genital sores
- First herpes episode
- Partner questions