How to prepare for a video visit about Genital Herpes (HSV)

Audience: pediatric

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can cause sores or blisters around the genital area. If you or your child are preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider about genital herpes, this guide will help you get ready. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, medical history, and may guide you on how to care for any sores. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to discuss symptoms and get advice, but it cannot replace a physical exam or lab tests when needed. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make your video visit easier and more effective.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain or swelling in the genital area — seek urgent medical care.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with genital symptoms — contact healthcare immediately.
• Difficulty urinating or inability to urinate — get emergency evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to genital herpes.
• Providing advice on symptom management and medication use.
• Determining if in-person evaluation or testing is needed.
• Offering emotional support and education about the condition.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical exam or collecting samples for lab testing.
• Diagnosing genital herpes definitively without lab tests.
• Managing severe symptoms or complications requiring emergency care.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person assessment.

What is Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It often causes painful blisters or sores around the genital or anal area. The virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. Symptoms may include itching, burning, or pain in the affected area, but some people have no symptoms at all.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. During the visit, the provider can ask about symptoms, review your medical history, and offer advice on managing symptoms. They can also help decide if further testing or in-person care is needed. Telemedicine is useful for follow-up visits or discussing new symptoms early on.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or collect lab samples needed to confirm genital herpes. If sores need to be tested or if symptoms are severe, an in-person visit may be necessary. Emergency situations, such as severe pain or signs of spreading infection, require prompt in-person care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, private space with good internet connection. Have a list of symptoms, questions, and any medications ready. If comfortable, you may be asked to show the affected area on camera, so ensure good lighting and privacy. A trusted adult should be present if the patient is a child or adolescent.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the provider's advice on medication, wound care, and symptom management. Watch for any worsening symptoms or new signs of infection. Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet place with good lighting for the video visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, questions, and any medications currently taken.
• Have a trusted adult present if the patient is a child or adolescent.
• Be ready to describe or show the affected area if comfortable and asked by the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on medication and wound care.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new signs immediately.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or lab tests.
• Maintain good hygiene and avoid touching sores to prevent spreading the virus.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can genital herpes be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for genital herpes. However, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and lower the chance of spreading the virus to others.

How is genital herpes diagnosed?

Diagnosis is often made based on symptoms and physical exam. Lab tests, such as swabs from sores or blood tests, can confirm the infection. These tests usually require an in-person visit.

Is it safe to have a video visit about genital herpes?

Yes, video visits are a safe and private way to discuss symptoms and get advice. Providers follow strict privacy rules to protect your information. However, some situations may require an in-person visit for full evaluation.

Can children get genital herpes?

Yes, children can get genital herpes, though it is less common. It may occur through contact with an infected person or during childbirth if the mother has an active infection.

What should I do if I have a new genital sore?

Contact your healthcare provider promptly. A video visit can help assess your symptoms and decide if you need in-person care or testing.

Sources

1. Genital Herpes — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Genital Herpes - CDC Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Herpes Simplex Virus Infections — National Library of Medicine.
4. Genital Herpes - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.