The short version
Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 is often linked with cold sores and HSV-2 is more often linked with genital infection, but either type can affect the mouth or genitals. It is common, manageable, and not a moral verdict on anyone.
In Ireland, the key practical point is this: if you have visible sores, a home STI kit is not the right test. A clinician may need to examine you and swab a fresh blister or ulcer.
Symptoms to watch for
- Painful blisters, ulcers, cracked-looking skin or sores around the genitals, anus or mouth.
- Tingling, burning, itching or nerve-like pain before sores appear.
- Pain when peeing, especially if urine touches open skin.
- Flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, headache or body aches during a first episode.
- No symptoms at all. Many people with HSV do not know they have it.
The first episode can be more uncomfortable than later recurrences. Recurrent outbreaks are often shorter and milder, but patterns vary from person to person.
How herpes spreads
Herpes spreads through skin-to-skin contact with the affected area, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Transmission risk is highest when blisters or ulcers are present, but HSV can sometimes pass on when there are no obvious symptoms.
Condoms reduce risk, but they do not cover every area where HSV can be present. Avoid sex during an outbreak or when warning symptoms such as tingling or burning are starting.
Testing in Ireland
The short version: a swab from a fresh sore is the most reliable route, a home STI kit does not diagnose herpes, and herpes is not part of routine no-symptom screening. For the full picture — where to go, what the test involves, costs, and whether testing makes sense if you have no symptoms — see our dedicated guide: herpes testing in Ireland.
Where to go
- Free HSE sexual health clinics can assess symptoms, advise on testing and arrange treatment.
- Your GP can assess symptoms and prescribe treatment where appropriate.
- SH:24 home kits are useful for routine screening for common STIs when you have no symptoms, but not for diagnosing herpes sores.
Treatment and management
There is no cure that removes HSV from the body, but symptoms can be treated. HSE guidance says first symptoms of genital herpes are usually treated with antiviral tablets to speed healing, and pain can often be managed with simple painkillers or a local anaesthetic cream.
For repeated outbreaks, a clinician may discuss episodic treatment to start quickly when symptoms appear. If recurrences are frequent, HSE prescribing guidance says suppressive therapy may be offered and can be best managed at a GUM clinic.
Do not self-diagnose or buy antibiotics for this. Herpes is viral, and the right medication and timing should be decided by a clinician.
Pregnancy and herpes
If you are pregnant and think you have a first episode of genital herpes, get medical advice promptly. HSE prescribing guidance says people with first-time genital herpes in pregnancy should have the diagnosis confirmed, treatment started and be referred to a GUM clinic, with obstetric team involvement where relevant.
Partners and disclosure
Herpes conversations can feel bigger than the medical facts. You do not need to give a courtroom speech. A clear version is usually enough: "I have HSV. I avoid sex during outbreaks, I know my signs, and I wanted you to know so we can make decisions together."
For scripts and timing, read how to tell a partner about an STI and overcoming STI stigma.
How common is it?
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre reported 1,834 notified genital herpes cases in Ireland in 2024, with a national notification rate of 35.6 per 100,000 population. Notifications only count diagnosed/reported cases, so they do not capture everyone with HSV.
FAQ
Can I have herpes without symptoms?
Yes. Many people with HSV have mild symptoms, symptoms they mistake for something else, or no symptoms at all.
Should I use a home STI kit if I have sores?
No. If you have visible sores, ulcers or blisters, use a GP or sexual health clinic. A home kit cannot examine the skin or swab the sore.
Do condoms prevent herpes completely?
No. Condoms reduce risk but do not cover all skin that can carry HSV. Avoid sex during outbreaks and ask a clinician about antiviral options if transmission risk is a major concern.
Is herpes dangerous?
For most adults, herpes is manageable rather than dangerous. It needs extra care in pregnancy, in people with weakened immune systems, and if symptoms affect the eye.
Think you have symptoms?
Book a GP or HSE sexual health clinic while symptoms are active. If you have no symptoms and just want a routine screen, start with the free SH:24 home STI test guide.
Find free STI testing in Ireland