Since the 1980s, people suffering from genital herpes have been fitted with a scarlet letter, reducing their self-esteem and adding insult to injury. Unfortunately, genital herpes is an incredibly common condition with roughly 16% of the population having contracted the Herpes Simplex II virus. In fact, it's 50% more common than Type II Diabetes.
So it is no surprise that in a recent national survey conducted by the makers of FemiClear for Genital Herpes Symptoms — a new, OTC product for relief of genital herpes outbreak symptoms — 85% of people say that the negative stigma around herpes makes it difficult to discuss the condition openly (though 82% wish that weren’t the case).
FemiClear is leading a conversation around the realities of genital herpes in order to break the stigma surrounding the condition and encourage more women to seek treatment for the itching, burning, and pain that can be associated with an outbreak. Recently released in the U.S., FemiClear for Genital Herpes Symptoms has been shown to kill 99.9% of Herpes Simplex I and II in laboratory testing and a study of real women with the condition found that more than 90% said it reduce the impact of their symptoms.
I had a chance to do an interview to learn more - answers courtesy of Caroline Goodner, CEO of Organicare and Dr. Goje.
Why is it so important to help reduce the stigma surrounding genital herpes?
Genital herpes is far more common than most people think. According to the CDC, 11.9% of people aged 14-49 are infected with HSV-2. It can happen to anyone who is sexually active. Women are twice as likely to be infected as men. Having a herpes infection shouldn’t define a person. While there is no cure, the symptoms are manageable. People with herpes can lead happy, healthy, satisfying sex lives.
How do I know if I have genital herpes?
Most people who have genital herpes have no symptoms, or have very mild symptoms. You may not notice mild symptoms or you may mistake them for another skin condition, such as a pimple or ingrown hair. Because of this, most people who have herpes do not know it.
Herpes sores usually appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum or mouth. The blisters break and leave painful sores that may take a week or more to heal. These symptoms are sometimes called “having an outbreak.” The first time someone has an outbreak they may also have flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands.
People who experience an initial outbreak of herpes can have repeated outbreaks, especially if they are infected with HSV-2. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Although the infection stays in the body for the rest of your life, the number of outbreaks may decrease over time.
You should be examined by your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms or if your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD. STD symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly genital discharge, burning when urinating, or (for women) bleeding between periods.
Why is it important to have an OTC option for treatment?
The new OTC product - FemiClear for Genital Herpes Symptoms - is a breakthrough addition to the tools a woman with genital herpes can use. It should be used in addition to a prescription anti-viral if one has been prescribed by a physician. However, many women will still experience outbreaks and the symptoms can be uncomfortable. After their initial diagnosis, most women don’t return to their doctor for these breakouts, so an OTC medicine to help manage those is welcome. FemiClear provides relief for those symptoms - itching, pain and burning.
How can people know when they should seek a doctor's treatment instead of an OTC solution?
If this is the first time someone has experienced genital blisters, sores of other symptoms consistent with genital herpes, they should see a doctor to get a diagnosis. A doctor may also prescribe a prescription anti-viral medication. They should follow their doctor’s advice. If they experience outbreaks and want an OTC solution to help manage those symptoms - itching, pain and burning - then FemiClear for Genital Herpes Symptoms is a great option to consider. In a recent study, over 90% of women who tried it reported less severe symptoms.
How many different options are there for treatment of genital herpes?
Antivirals are the main stay while support therapy including pain management is important.
There are 3 main types of antivirals used in the treatment of genital herpes- Acyclovir, Valacyclovir and Famciclovir
How can people work with their doctor to make sure they have the most appropriate treatment plan?
Appropriate treatment plan is dependent on some factors:
- Severity of symptoms- are the symptoms severe and prolonged ?
- Frequency of outbreaks – if > 5 outbreaks a year
- Sex partner. Is patient sexually active ? and is sex partner NOT infected with genital herpes ?
In general, patients are treated when they have an outbreak of genital herpes, and some may elect to have suppressive therapy or episodic therapy following initial treatment based on the above mentioned 3 factors.
Suppressive therapy decreases severity of symptoms, decrease risk of recurrence and reduce risk of transmission to an uninfected sex partner.
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