Genital herpes is more common and more dangerous than you think

Hepatitis B, chlamydia, HIV, papillomavirus… Among the wide range of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), genital herpes is predominant.

This is the most common STD in the world, reports

 on Monday.

Caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), genital herpes is often asymptomatic but can lead to vesicular lesions and very unpleasant inflammations in the genital area.

In addition, the virus never disappears and remains dormant in the body, which can cause regular recurrences.

Risks for the unborn child

Genital herpes can cause serious complications especially in pregnant women and newborns.

“Transmission to the child occurs in 85% of cases during its passage through the maternal genital tract, in the event of viral excretion, at the time of childbirth”, explains a dermatologist interviewed by

.

If the mother suffers injuries during childbirth or has had injuries less than a month before, a caesarean section is often performed as a preventive measure.

Indeed, the consequences for the infant can be serious.

According to Health Insurance, genital herpes affects 20% of the sexually active population, especially people aged 25 to 35, in France.

The virus is transmitted during sexual contact, hence the importance of means of protection during sexual relations.

Oral-genital sexual practices can transmit herpes type 1 (HSV1).

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• STD

• Virus

• Health

• Sexuality

• Pregnancy