genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases ( stds ). the disease can be bothersome. but if you are a healthy adult you do not need to worry that it will cause serious problems. most people never have symptoms or the symptoms are so mild that people do not know that they are infected. but in some people the disease causes occasional outbreaks of itchy and painful sores in the genital area. after the first outbreak the herpes virus stays in the nerve cells below the skin and becomes inactive. it usually becomes active again from time to time traveling back up to the skin and causing more sores. things like stress illness a new sex partner or menstruation may trigger a new outbreak. as time goes on the outbreaks happen less often heal faster and don't hurt as much. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what is genital herpes?