There is no cure for genital herpes. After the virus has infected the body, it cannot be eradicated and remains in the body. However, there are several prescribed antiviral drugs that can reduce the intensity of symptoms at the time of outbreaks as well as reduce the frequency of outbreaks. One antiviral drug called valacyclovir has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent transmission of genital herpes.

Topical creams have been proven to be ineffective. Intravenous treatment may be used to treat people with suppressed immune systems, such as those who have been infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

There are several treatment regimens including:

• Episodic therapy. Taking medication when symptoms appear. This involves taking a daily dose of a medication, usually for a week, until symptoms subside. The medications, which are safe and have few side effects, shorten the length of first episodes and reduce the severity of recurring outbreaks, especially if taken within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.
  
  
• Suppressive therapy. For patients who experience frequent recurrences. This involves taking daily medication, even when symptoms are not present. It reduces the number of outbreaks and the chance of transmitting the virus to a sexual partner.
  
  
• Episodic suppressive therapy. Designed for patients who wish to prevent outbreaks when it is important, such as while on vacation.

During outbreaks, a number of steps can be taken to speed healing and prevent spread of the infection to other parts of the body and other people. They include:

• Keeping the infected area clean and dry
• Trying not to touch the sores
• Washing the hands if sores are touched
• Avoiding sexual contact from the time symptoms are noticed until they have healed

In addition, there are a number of self-care measures a person can take to relieve the symptoms associated with a herpes outbreak. Applying cool cloths to the affected areas may provide relief. People experiencing an outbreak should also avoid wearing tight or irritating underwear or clothing. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can also be taken to help relieve the pain of genital sores.

Pregnant women may be put on suppressive therapy if the virus is active late in their pregnancy. The goal is to prevent transmission to the baby, which, while rare, can have very serious or fatal consequences. Women with sores detected in or near the vagina at the time of labor may be given Caesarean sections (the surgical delivery of a baby through the mother’s abdomen). If a newborn is infected, early treatment with antiviral therapy can greatly improve the baby’s health. Early detection and treatment can reduce the more serious complications of neonatal herpes.

Although genital herpes is a common and manageable condition, living with herpes can be distressing, inconvenient and, in some cases, painful. The period after diagnosis may be an especially emotional time, with many people experiencing feelings of shame and fear. As a result, people with genital herpes may benefit from seeking counseling or attending a support group.