Treatment can't cure genital herpes. But it can provide relief from the discomfort of herpes sores and can speed up healing.

Treatment works best if it is started as soon as possible after an outbreak begins. This is especially true for outbreaks that come back again and again.

Treatment includes:

• Medicines to make blisters and sores feel better and heal faster or to help prevent outbreaks. For more information, see Medications.
• Home treatment, such as taking warm sitz baths and wearing cotton underwear, to help sores heal. For more information, see Home Treatment.
• Taking steps to prevent the spread of genital herpes. These include avoiding any sexual contact if you (or your partner) have symptoms or are being treated for genital herpes. For more information, see Prevention.