Herpes Explained: HSV-1, HSV-2, Symptoms & Naturopathic Support
Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmissible infections (STIs) in Australia. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and there are two main types:
HSV-1 – commonly associated with cold sores around the mouth, but it can also cause genital herpes. Up to 80% of the Australian population has HSV1. More than half of primary genital infections are caused by HSV1 in young people
HSV-2 – more commonly affects the genital area. 1 in 8 sexually active people in Australia have HSV-2 genitally.
Both types of HSV can remain in the body long-term and may reactivate from time to time.
It’s so important to open up conversation about herpes so that we can support one another, share resources, and drop the stigma around this common virus. It is possible to be confident, comfortable and empowered with a herpes diagnosis.
Herpes Transmission and Symptoms
Herpes is mostly transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact of fluids, for e.g. making out, or penetrative vaginal, anal and/or oral sex.
It is typically transmitted only when the viral load is present, such as visible blisters or ulcers. However, it can also be transmitted when there are no visible symptoms (this is known as asymptomatic shedding). This is why many people unknowingly have HSV.
Many people with genital herpes have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may appear days, weeks or even months after initial exposure.
A first outbreak can be very uncomfortable and painful. You may experience:
Flu-like symptoms, swollen glands
Small blisters around the mouth or genitals that break into painful ulcers
Redness or rash
Swelling
Urethral inflammation
Herpes outbreaks can look different person to person. If you aren’t able to find your exact story online, just know that you aren’t alone.
As time passes, typically recurrent outbreaks become milder and shorter in duration. However, recurrent outbreaks are influenced by many factors, including stress, hormones, illness, low immunity and sexual activity.
Herpes outbreaks can be incredibly painful, and you deserve support if you are experiencing this.
The Truth About Cold Sores and Shingles
Did you know that cold sores and shingles are also apart of the same viral family?
Cold sores are typically HSV1, so the commonly accepted cold sore is actually herpes.
Shingles is caused by a different virus (varicella-zoster virus) but they come from the same underlying virus family.
Shingles and herpes can share common symptoms such as painful, tingling, or burning skin, redness, and blister-like eruptions. But the key differentiator to be aware of is the pattern and location of the symptoms.
Shingles typically appears as a single, localised stripe or band of red skin and eruptions on one side of the body or face, often following a nerve path.
Herpes, on the other hand, tends to cause clusters of small blisters around the mouth or genitals.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you notice symptoms of blisters, ulcers or pain, and you are feeling unsure - it is always best to visit your trusted GP or sexual health clinic for a swab test. Herpes is treatable (not curable), and both conventional and naturopathic support is available.
Naturopathic care with Jessie aims to:
Reduce the severity of outbreaks
Shorten healing time
Decrease the frequency of recurrent outbreaks
Strengthen immunity
Reduce stress levels
Support a healthy, nutritious diet
Improve vaginal microbiome
Support For Herpes
The reality is, anyone having sex can be influenced or exposed to certain STI’s or microbes that can influence our ecosystem and expose us. Using barrier methods will significantly help to reduce exposure to any STI’s.
Part of the support available in consultations with Jessie at Botanical Abundance is ensuring vaginal microbiome health is optimal. Research reflects vaginal microflora that is low in good bacteria (Lactobacilli), or those with BV more likely to contract STI’s.
It is also common to see alongside herpes, that individuals can experience co-infections (like thrush or BV) and “never feel the same since”. This is because of the influence STI’s themselves have on the vaginal microbiome. Understanding your vaginal health gives us great insight into why recurrent outbreaks may be happening.
It is possible to live well and have a healthy sex life with herpes!
One of the biggest myths around herpes is that your life is over - it may feel like this, but it isn’t. As a naturopath living with herpes, I promise you that is not the case. The lack of education and stigma associated with herpes often causes more confusion than the virus itself.
I know a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and STI’s often come with shame, frustration and disappointment. But the good news is that genital herpes is manageable, and if you are experiencing recurrent outbreaks, you shouldn’t have to live with pain - support is available.
The Ultimate Guide To Living With Herpes !!!
I’ve created a series of Herpes Resources to give you all the tips you need to be confident, comfortable and empowered with your herpes diagnosis. It’s everything I wish existed for HSV+ individuals.
I am so excited for the launch of these resources mid 2026.
For helpful support you can access today, check out my instagram, tiktok and other blogs.
If you are ready to get ontop of recurrent HSV outbreaks, and you want to feel comfortable and confident, you can also book in for a private consultation with Jessie.