Genital herpes can be a very annoying sexually transmitted disease to cope with. People with the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, or HSV-2, will generally experience pain, tingling, and itching in the infected area before they notice blisters. Most people will experience five herpes outbreaks a year for the first few years and will generally experience less outbreaks each year after that, according to WebMD. Can menstrual periods cause women to experience outbreaks?
Is There a Link Between Genital Herpes and Menstruation?
Women are more likely to experience genital herpes outbreaks during menstrual periods. In fact, it is so common for women to experience outbreaks during menstruation that the term herpes menstrualis is used to describe the condition, according to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. If you notice that your herpes outbreaks only recur during menstruation, there’s a chance that this condition affects you.
Do Menstrual Periods Trigger Oral Herpes Outbreaks?
Genital herpes is not the only type of herpes with outbreaks which can be triggered by menstrual periods. Oral herpes, which appear in the form of fever blisters and are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), can also be triggered by menstruation, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
Why Does Menstruation Cause Herpes Outbreaks?
According to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, it is believed that an allergy is responsible for this type of herpes. The hormonal changes, which can cause acne, are also probably to blame. Some medical experts believe that menstruation causes herpes because it is a stressful time. Many women experience emotional mood swings and painful periods, which can be stressful.
Does Herpes Affect Menstrual Periods?
Although menstruation can trigger a herpes outbreak, periods are not affected by herpes. If you experience any changes in your cycle, such as longer periods or irregular periods, it’s important to talk to your doctor to identify the cause.
If you notice a cluster of bumps or a larger bump or lesion during menstruation for the very first time, it’s important to make an appointment with a gynecologist right away. The most accurate way to find out if you are experiencing a current outbreak is for the doctor to take a swab of the affected area and have it tested for the virus. A blood test can also be done to check for antibodies to determine if you have ever been exposed to the herpes virus.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who is concerned about their health should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare professional.
Sources:
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
WebMD