Genital herpes is an infectious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, but can also be transmitted vertically from mother to child during pregnancy and labor.
Herpes simplex viruses can be categorized into type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) based on their antigenicity. HSV-1 is the main cause of oral and labial herpes, and HSV-2 is the main cause of genital herpes, but oral-genital sexual behavioral patterns that result in HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes.
After HSV infects the body through a break in the skin or mucous membrane, the virus can lie latent in the body’s sensory ganglia and remain dormant for a long time. Under the action of triggering factors such as alcohol consumption, fatigue, anxiety and mechanical stimulation, the virus can be activated and develop.
In addition, if the mother has genital herpes, the newborn may be infected with HSV during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and in the postpartum period.