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Genital Herpes

Get Treated for Genital Herpes

Get your Genital Herpes treatment* online in a few simple steps, without having to see your doctor. Our virtual care service connects you to highly trained clinicians who can assess your health needs and safely prescribe the right medication for you.
* Includes Free Private Prescription & Consultation

GET TREATED CONVENIENTLY

Available Treatments for Genital Herpes

  • Valtrex

    Valtrex

    • FREE secure consultation service
    • Fast and effective treatment
    • FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £138.10
  • Valaciclovir

    Valaciclovir

    • FREE secure consultation service
    • Fast and effective treatment
    • FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £30.40
  • Famvir

    Famvir

    • FREE secure consultation service
    • Fast and effective treatment
    • FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £256.54
  • Famciclovir

    Famciclovir

    • FREE secure consultation service
    • Fast and effective treatment
    • FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £248.90
  • Aciclovir

    Aciclovir

    • FREE secure consultation service
    • Fast and effective treatment
    • FREE tracked and signed delivery
    From £11.99

SAFE PRESCRIBING

Get Started With the Right Treatment for You

Getting treated privately is a service designed for individuals who are looking to get treated for a medical condition from the comfort of their own home. Get connected with one of our clinicians to start your assessment. It’s FREE and you only pay for medication that is prescribed. This service is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council in the UK.

MEDICAL INFORMATION

Genital Herpes Key Facts

Navin Khosla NowPatientGreen tick
Medically reviewed by Navin Khosla, B.Pharm
Written by

History
September 3, 2025 (Current Version)
June 24, 2024
Written by
Medically Reviewed by

Genital herpes is a common STI (sexually transmitted infection) caused by the herpes simplex virus. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reports over 40 million adults have genital herpes in the U.S.

Here, we will take a closer look at genital herpes, how it is transmitted, its symptoms, your treatment options, and how to prevent it.

Understanding Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is classed as an STD (sexually transmitted disease). It is highly contagious and is caused by 2 types of the virus: (HSV-1) Herpes simplex virus type 1, which is associated with oral herpes (cold sores), and (HSV-2) Herpes simplex virus type 2, which is the primary cause of genital herpes.

Both types of the virus remain in your body even when you do not have any symptoms, and even though your immune system will usually keep the virus in check, it can be reactivated occasionally.

Transmission

The virus will enter your body through skin abrasions and mucous membranes, such as those in the nose, mouth, and genital area. Transmission occurs through direct physical contact with bodily fluids infected with the virus. These include vaginal fluids, saliva and semen. The virus is transmitted even when there are no symptoms of genital herpes.

Symptoms and outbreaks

Symptoms will vary from person to person. While some may suffer with recurrent outbreaks, others may not experience any symptoms at all. Symptoms may include painful blisters, swelling, itching, or ulcers. Your first outbreak of genital herpes will occur within 2 to 12 days of being exposed to the virus. Your first episode of genital herpes will be more severe than any future outbreaks which will also not last as long as the first time.

Other symptoms of an outbreak, may include the formation of small blisters that erupt and form painful open sores, on or around the genitals, anus, thighs, buttocks, and mouth, pain when urinating, and flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature and body aches.

Many people with genital herpes mistake their symptoms for other conditions such as yeast infections, razor burns, or pimples. Some people may have very mild symptoms that are easily missed, making herpes more challenging to diagnose.

Diagnosis and testing

Diagnosis requires both a visual examination of the affected area and laboratory testing, using swabs taken from the sores or ulcers. Blood tests may also be taken to test for HSV antibodies, to check for past or current viral infections.

Testing for genital herpes may not be needed if symptoms are not present, but if you do have symptoms or think you have been exposed to the virus, you should seek a medical evaluation.

Managing Genital Herpes

There is no cure for genital herpes, but there are treatment options available to help manage your symptoms. These will help reduce the severity and how often outbreaks occur, as well as prevent the spread of the virus to sexual partners.

Treatment options

Antivirals are prescribed to help relieve genital herpes symptoms, speed up the healing process, and reduce the risk of transmission. Treatment is most effective at the first sign of an outbreak. Antiviral medicines include aciclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir.

How genital herpes is treated will vary depending on each individual and their circumstances. The two strategies are:

  • Intermittent treatment, where the antiviral is taken when symptoms first appear or before symptoms develop fully. This will reduce the severity and how long symptoms persist
  • Suppressive therapy, where the antiviral is taken daily to prevent further outbreaks. This type of treatment is recommended for those who have regular or severe outbreaks, to reduce their frequency and the risk of transmission

Alternative approaches and additional support

Some people may try alternative or complementary therapies to manage symptoms. However, there is limited evidence to support the effectiveness of alternative treatments.

Home care

Good hygiene and self-care can also help in the management of genital herpes. Keeping the affected area clean and dry, using mild cleansers, and cotton clothing can all help to reduce irritation. Ice packs or petroleum jelly to relieve any discomfort and practicing safe sex by using condoms, is also recommended.

Recurrences and triggers

Over time the severity and frequency of outbreaks tends to decrease and individuals may have long periods without any symptoms, but certain factors can trigger outbreaks. These include exposure to U.V. light, friction, illness, stress, and changes in hormone levels.

Pregnancy and Genital Herpes

Risk of complications for the baby are low if the infection was present before pregnancy, but there are precautions that should be taken to further reduce the risk, such as taking antivirals during pregnancy to manage symptoms and to reduce the risk of an outbreak during childbirth.

A cesarean section may be recommended if active genital herpes is present during childbirth to prevent transmission of the virus to the baby. Neonatal herpes can be life-threatening to a baby if exposed to the virus during childbirth.

Preventing the transmission of Genital Herpes

Preventing the transmission of genital herpes is crucial for individuals who are sexually active. Transmission can occur even when using barrier methods, such as condoms, however these tips can reduce the risk.

  • Using barrier methods, such as condoms or dental dams, during sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of transmission. Condoms however, do not give 100% protection
  • Having open and honest conversations with your partner are vital
  • Daily use of antiviral medication can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and the risk of transmission
  • Avoiding sexual contact and refraining from sexual activity during outbreaks will reduce the risk of transmission. But remember, herpes can still be spread when symptoms are not visible
  • Regular testing for STIs, including genital herpes infections, is recommended for sexually active individuals. Early detection and treatment helps to prevent transmission

Living with Genital Herpes

Genital herpes can be a challenge, physically and emotionally. Some tips for managing genital herpes include:

  • Educating yourself about genital herpes and its management to reduce anxiety and promote self-care
  • Discussing your diagnosis with trusted friends, family, or healthcare professionals. This can provide you with emotional support and help with feelings of embarrassment
  • Exercising to help relieve stress
  • Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy balanced diet, and good hygiene
  • Joining support groups or online communities to share experiences and advice

Frequently asked questions

How is Genital Herpes transmitted?

Genital herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or direct contact or exchange of bodily fluids during sex. This includes vaginal sex, anal sex, and oral sex. Herpes can be spread even when there are no symptoms or herpes sores present. Contrary to belief, herpes cannot be spread through contact with objects such as toilet seats or towels.

How do I know I have Genital Herpes?

Diagnosis requires both a visual examination of the affected area by a healthcare provider and laboratory testing. Blood tests may also be taken to test for antibodies, to check for past or current viral infections.

Conclusion

Genital herpes is a common STI caused by the herpes simplex virus. There is no cure, but individuals can manage their conditions through medication, home care, and preventive measures.

If you think you have herpes or have concerns about your sexual health, speak to your doctor or a nurse for medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment will help you manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Also, open communication with your sex partner and practising safe sex will help you deal with condition both physically and emotionally.

References

Medical Disclaimer

NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.

Service Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Treated Privately for Genital Herpes

What does the Get Treated Privately service for Genital Herpes do?

The Get Treated Privately service is a private prescribing service which is designed for adults aged 18 years and over, who are experiencing health issues and who would like to receive a fast-track assessment and if applicable, a treatment plan from a qualified prescribing clinician. Treatments for Genital Herpes are dispensed and delivered to your home or workplace from our regulated online pharmacy.

Is this a safe Genital Herpes prescribing service?

Yes. Our formulary of medications prescribed for Genital Herpes are controlled, governed, and continuously risk-assessed by our Medical Director, Dr Ihtesham Sabri. Unlike other prescribing services which operate using faceless questionnaires, our Genital Herpes prescribing service is conducted through remote video consultations, also known as synchronous consultations. This builds patient safety and prescribing appropriateness into our service, ensuring our prescribing clinicians can be satisfied with who and what they are treating. There is no guarantee of supply of medications, and any prescriptions supplied are at the sole discretion of our clinician prescriber. There is no charge for the Genital Herpes consultation.

What is a prescribing clinician and is it safe for me to use them on the NowPatient platform?

Our prescribing clinicians are board-certified pharmacists, nurses, or doctors who can also prescribe any medicine for any medical condition, subject to accepted accreditation and good clinical practice. They are all registered with their respective regulatory bodies. For example, a pharmacist independent prescriber is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Each prescribing clinician undergoes an extensive background check including a disclosure and barring service check (DBS). In addition, they undergo a rigorous license verification process. When you book an appointment with our prescribing clinicians you will see their full name, license number, and any specialized credentials they have.

Is the service available worldwide?

Yes, you can get treated privately for Genital Herpes worldwide.

Do I need to pay for this service?

Yes. This is a private service. You do not need to pay for the consultation. You only pay for the cost of the Genital Herpes treatment that you are prescribed.

How do I book a consultation?

Once you have logged into your account, you will need to navigate to the Get Treated Privately service card which is located as a service item on the dashboard.

Using the action button on the service card, you can select one of the following – ‘Search Treatments’ or ‘Search Conditions’. From here you can search for Genital Herpes.

Depending on the search type and the product/condition that you would like to get treated, you will be taken to a consultation booking screen. Follow the simple steps to complete your booking. During the booking confirmation, you will be able to select a date and time that is convenient for you, along with the preferred language and gender of the prescribing clinician you wish to choose. You will then see a list of all available expert clinicians who are trained to assess the medication or condition chosen. Once you have confirmed your booking, you will see a summary of the appointment including preliminary information about the consultation. At this point, you will also be able to add a reminder to your calendar. Always ensure your account health profile is up to date before any consultation. This ensures that our clinicians have the most up-to-date information about your current health status and anything that may influence their prescribing decisions. You will receive a push notification, SMS notification and email reminding you of your consultation, 30 minutes before the virtual consultation is due to start.

Depending on certain medications which require our clinicians to have your up-to-date blood pressure readings, you may be required to submit a virtual blood pressure check, using your smartphone or device. We will provide you with full instructions, when this is required.

What happens during the remote video consultation?

During the consultation, the clinician will ask you a series of questions that will allow the clinician to assess your condition and potential treatment options for Genital Herpes. At the end of the consultation, the clinician will decide which treatment options are safe and suitable option for you.

If it is, the clinician will discuss the treatment option, so that you can jointly agree on the treatment plan. Once you have jointly agreed on a treatment plan, the clinician will issue a prescription treatment for your Genital Herpes which will be available in your Cart at the end of the consultation.

Also, with your consent, the clinician may wish to inform your doctor of the treatment that was prescribed. We recommend that you agree to this since your doctor is responsible for your overall care and they should have a record of this consultation and medication prescribed. In addition, our clinician may take the opportunity to advise you on your overall health including advice on healthy living or stop smoking.

What happens at the end of the Genital Herpes consultation?

At the end of the consultation, you will receive a notification which will summarise the outcome. It will also advise you if any referrals were made to your doctor, along with any other advice that was given to you by the clinician.

If a referral letter was issued to your doctor, you will be able to view a copy of this in the ‘Documents’ section of the dashboard.

If you were prescribed a treatment, it will now be available in your Cart.

When you go to your Cart, you will be able to select the treatment, checkout and make payment. Once the checkout is complete, your prescription order will be sent to our regulated online pharmacy for processing.

What if the prescriber does not prescribe a treatment for Genital Herpes?

We operate a safe prescribing service. This means that our prescribing clinicians always exercise their clinical judgment when prescribing . Unfortunately, we do not operate a self select service where you can choose a medication and simply buy. If the clinician that sees you does not prescribe anything, then you will not be charged.

Will I get status updates for my order?

Yes. When your Genital Herpes treatment is approved, and after you have checked out and paid for your order, we will keep you fully updated with the status of your order. Every time the status of your order changes, you will be notified immediately. These notifications will appear in the ‘Notification Feed’ section on the dashboard.

How will my Genital Herpes treatment be delivered?

All orders are shipped in discreet and unmarked packaging. This means it is suitable for delivery wherever you require (home, work, or a neighbour).

For thermo-sensitive orders (e.g. Insulin or weight loss injections) we use cold chain-validated packaging. Your parcel will normally receive an estimated delivery window from the courier on the day of delivery.

For your protection and safety, your first order can only be delivered to the address that is registered with NowPatient. Future orders can be delivered to any other address, for example, your workplace.

Do you ship cold-chain or temperature sensitive products?

Yes. We use a specialist courier service for all thermo-sensitive deliveries. This is to ensure that cold chain integrity is always maintained and thus the product quality, safety and efficacy.

Learn more about how we handle the delivery of temperature sensitive products.

Where do you deliver?

We currently deliver to all postcodes/zipcodes worldwide. Some postcodes in rural areas may have a slightly longer delivery time.

When will my order arrive?

We aim to ship all orders placed Monday – Friday before 3pm on the same day. Orders placed outside these times will be shipped the next working day. All deliveries are shipped by Royal Mail, which delivers Monday through Saturday in the UK. For deliveries outside of the UK, please check with your national postal service for accurate delivery days.

Our delivery options have the following delivery times:

  • UK – Royal Mail Tracked 24 & Signed for Delivery – Next day delivery
  • Europe – Royal Mail Tracked – Typical delivery of 3-5 working days
  • Worldwide – Royal Mail – Typical delivery of 5-7 working days. If a tracked option is available for your country via Royal Mail, this service will be applied.

What should I do if my order has not arrived?

Delivery is normally made promptly after your dispatch notification is received. You can check the tracking details of your Genital Herpes order in the ‘Notification Feed’ section of the dashboard, at any point after dispatch.

Unfortunately, packages can sometimes get lost in the delivery system. If after 10 days you have not received your delivery, please contact us and we will do all we can to resolve the problem.

Can you prescribe GLP-1 weight loss injections?

Yes. However, with GLP-1 weight loss medications, the license requires that there are support resources put in place as part of the plan including coaching for a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and diet. Our clinicians will discuss this with you, if you are prescribed this type of treatment.

You can learn more on our Weight Loss Programs feature page.

What’s included with my order?

If you are ordering a treatment for Genital Herpes, your order will contain your medication only.

If you are ordering weight loss injections, your order will contain:

  • Your prescription of pre-filled weight loss injection pens
  • Needles
  • Sharps bin for safe disposal of needles (if ordered as part of the bundle)

Can I reorder my medication, if I have already been prescribed a course?

Yes. However, as a responsible prescribing service, we do not issue more than one monthly cycle of medication at a time.

This means that, if you would like to reorder, you will need to rebook a consultation.

This is important, because it allows our clinicians to keep track on the progress of your treatment plan and ensure that the medication remains safe and effective for you.

What is the earliest I can reorder my medication or treatment?

14 days after you have received your first monthly supply of medication, we will send you a notification to advise you that you are eligible to reorder your medication. To ensure that we are able to safely prescribe the Genital Herpes medication for the next supply, you will need to rebook a consultation.

This ensures that our clinician can check in on your treatment plan and ensure it is working as intended and continues to be safe, suitable and appropriate for you.

How do I reorder my Genital Herpes?

When you are eligible to reorder your next Genital Herpes prescription, we will send you a notification reminder. This notification reminder will request that you book a consultation with a NowPatient Clinician.

You should book a suitable time and date for the consultation.

At the end of the consultation, the clinician may advise you to either

  • Stop the treatment
  • Stay on the current dose
  • Increase the dose

If our clinician deems it safe for you to continue the medication used to treat Genital Herpes, the prescription will be added to your cart, from where you can checkout.

Delivery will be made in line with our delivery timescales.

As a responsible prescribing service, we will always monitor your Genital Herpes treatment plan to ensure that it remains safe, effective and suitable for you.

How do I reorder weight loss medication?

Our weight loss programs are built to closely monitor treatment progress and safety. Please refer to the Weight Loss Programs Service Guide that explains how you can reorder or step edit your dose.