Warts and Herpes Simplex Virus
Click on the links below to find out more about symptoms, how and when to test, and further information.
Warts
Warts
What are they?
Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV are a group of viruses that affect the skin- the two kinds that cause genital warts are types 6 and 11.
Symptoms
Small fleshy growths that appear around the genital area. They usually don't cause any symptoms but can sometimes be itchy and bleed.
When should I test?
If you have symptoms, you should contact the clinic to discuss on 01225 826855.How is it tested?
If you experience symptoms, you can have an examination to confirm if warts are present.
How is it treated?
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK. Nearly all sexually active people get infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Most HPV infections do not cause any problems and are cleared by your body within 2 years.If you have visible genital warts there are several treatment options:
- Cryotherapy (freezing) which is performed by a nurse or doctor.
- Topical treatments which you can do at home.
Where can I test?
- In the BANES area you can test at our clinic, you need to call our booking line to book.
- In Bristol - at Yuno Sexual Health.
- In the Wiltshire area - at Wiltshire Sexual Health.
Where can I read more about Warts?
Please see our useful links page.Herpes Simplex Virus
Herpes Simplex Virus
What is it?
Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types- type 1 and type 2. Most facial cold sores are caused by type 1. Herpes simplex on the genitals may be type 1 or type 2. It is passed on through close skin-to-skin contact (including oral, vaginal and anal sex).
Symptoms
Herpes can cause painful blisters/ ulcers in the genital area. You may also have swollen, tender lymph nodes in your groin.
When should I test?
If you have symptoms, you should contact the clinic to discuss on 01225 826855.
How is it tested?
Herpes is usually diagnosed by a nurse/doctor looking at the sores. A swab will usually be taken to confirm. Testing for herpes can only be done if you have symptoms and it cannot tell you how long you've had herpes or who you got it from.Once you have the virus it stays in your body. For some people this means you can get a recurrence of symptoms. These recurrences are usually milder than the first time you get symptoms.
How is it treated?
An antiviral medication can be given to you to shorten the duration of symptoms. If you get frequent recurrences, you may benefit from a longer course of the antiviral medication.
Where can I test?
Please note: you can only test if you have sores present.- In the BANES area you can test at our clinic, you need to call our booking line to book.
- In Bristol - at Yuno Sexual Health or order a postal kit.
- In the Wiltshire area - order a postal kit.
- In the Swindon area - Swish Services.
