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Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Testing and Treatment in Seoul

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is an infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is also the usual cause of cold sores on the mouth, and it can pass to the genitals through oral sex. After the first infection, the virus stays in the nerves and can become active again, causing repeat outbreaks. Herpes is very common worldwide, and many people who carry the virus do not know it.

What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

The first outbreak usually appears within about 2 to 12 days after exposure and is often the most noticeable. Symptoms may include:

• Tingling, itching, or burning in the genital area
• Small, painful blisters that break open and form shallow sores, then crust and heal
• Pain when urinating, especially when urine touches sores
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen glands in the groin (mainly in the first outbreak)

Later outbreaks are usually milder and shorter. Some people have very mild symptoms that are mistaken for a cut, an ingrown hair, or vulvar itching.

What causes genital herpes and what triggers outbreaks?

Herpes spreads by skin-to-skin contact with the genital or oral area of someone who has the virus, including during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can spread even when no sores are visible, although the risk is higher during an outbreak. Common triggers for repeat outbreaks include stress, illness, fatigue, menstruation, and friction.

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor as soon as possible if you notice new sores or blisters, ideally within the first few days, because testing is most accurate when the sore is fresh and antiviral medicine works best when started early. Seek care promptly if you cannot urinate, have severe pain, headache with neck stiffness, or if you are pregnant, especially in late pregnancy, because herpes can be passed to a baby during birth.

How is genital herpes diagnosed at the clinic?

The doctor examines the area and, if a sore is present, takes a swab from it for a PCR test, which can confirm the virus and tell whether it is HSV-1 or HSV-2. Knowing the type helps predict how often outbreaks may come back. Blood tests for herpes antibodies can be useful in some situations, but they cannot show when or where an infection began. The doctor may also recommend a wider STD testing panel, because other infections such as chlamydia can occur at the same time. For privacy and cost questions, see our guide to STD testing in Korea.

How is genital herpes treated?

There is no cure for herpes, but it is manageable. Treatment options include:

•  Antiviral tablets for an outbreak: shorten the outbreak and ease symptoms, especially when started early.
• Suppressive therapy: daily antiviral medicine for people with frequent outbreaks, which can reduce outbreaks and lower the chance of passing the virus to a partner.
• Comfort measures: keeping the area clean and dry, loose clothing, pain relief, and sitting in a warm bath or pouring water over the area while urinating.

In pregnancy, the doctor will plan care carefully and coordinate with the hospital where you plan to give birth. Individual results vary.

How can I lower the risk of passing on or getting herpes?

• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks and when you feel early warning signs.
• Use condoms, which lower but do not remove the risk.
• Consider suppressive therapy if your partner does not have herpes.
• Avoid oral sex when you or a partner has a cold sore.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

A diagnosis of herpes can feel upsetting. The doctor can explain what it means for your health and relationships, in English and without judgment. Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, sees patients in English at Eunice Women's Clinic.

•  Address: 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, across the crosswalk from Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk
• Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00–19:00
• Tue, Thu: 10:00–20:00 (evening clinic)
• Sat: 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
• Weekday lunch break: 13:30–14:30. Closed Sundays and Korean public holidays

You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search “유니스산부인과” or Eunice), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100. Booking is recommended; call or message to check same-day availability. See directions from Seongsu Station.

Frequently asked questions

Can genital herpes be cured?

There is currently no cure. The virus stays in the body, but many people have fewer and milder outbreaks over time. Antiviral medicine can shorten outbreaks and reduce the chance of passing the virus on.

Can I have herpes without symptoms?

Yes. Many people with HSV have no symptoms or very mild ones and do not know they have it. The virus can still be passed on at times when there are no visible sores.

Is it possible to get genital herpes from a cold sore?

Yes. HSV-1, which causes most cold sores, can be passed to the genitals through oral sex. Avoiding oral sex while a cold sore is present lowers this risk.

Can I have a normal pregnancy if I have herpes?

Yes, most people with herpes have healthy pregnancies. Tell your doctor early. In late pregnancy, antiviral medicine may be recommended, and the delivery plan is made with the hospital where you will give birth.

Should I get a blood test for herpes without symptoms?

Routine herpes blood testing is not generally recommended for people without symptoms, because results can be hard to interpret. It may be useful in some situations; the doctor can discuss whether it is right for you.

Related pages

•  STD Testing
• Vulvar Itching
• Genital Warts
• STD Testing in Korea
• Early Pregnancy Care

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.