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When it comes to sexual health, we believe everyone should feel confident and comfortable in approaching medical help. At Midland Health, we endeavour to put our patients at ease as soon as they get in touch. With our non-judgemental, confidential service, we can help get your symptoms tested to confirm whether you are experiencing an outbreak of herpes simplex.
Once our experienced GPs have assessed your symptoms, they can support you through the next steps of living with the herpes simplex virus. From arranging treatment to help alleviate your current discomfort to advice on managing any blisters/lesions, our medical professionals will also help you to manage this condition.
If you suspect having symptoms of herpes or genital herpes, it is important to visit our sexual health clinic as soon as you can. Once you have been formally tested, you will be in the best position to gain relief and manage your condition.
At Midland Health, we offer Herpes Simplex Testing allowing you to find out whether or not your symptoms are from the herpes simplex virus (HSV) quickly and efficiently. These tests involve collecting a sample of fluid from one of your blisters using a swab. The liquid can then be tested on-site for HSV. We do also offer blood tests which can look for Herpes type 1 or type 2.
During this process, it is also possible to be screened against other sexually-transmitted infections (STIs).
The difficulty with the herpes simplex virus is that the majority of people do not experience any symptoms when they first contract the infection. Quite simply, people do not know they are actually infected with the virus. Initial symptoms can take weeks, even months or years before they first present themselves.
If your symptoms do happen to develop at the point you first become infected, the virus would have been developing in your system between four to seven days before presenting itself through visible symptoms.
Herpes can be identified from the following symptoms:
The symptoms of herpes often last for approximately 20 days, and the blisters should scab, healing without scarring.
Herpes simplex is a viral infection, commonly known as HSV. Unfortunately, herpes simplex is a chronic condition for which there is no permanent cure. The virus will continue to live on in the body, occasionally becoming active again in the future.
There are two types of herpes simplex, type one and type two. Both are very similar, presenting themselves in small blisters and ulcers. When the blisters present themselves on the face they are referred to as ‘cold sores;’ whereas, when the blisters are located on the genitals, they are recognised as ‘genital herpes.’
Despite herpes simplex living on in your body, it is possible to manage the condition with medication. Allowing you to live a normal life, without passing the virus on to others.
Oral antiviral medication is used to treat the primary herpes infection. These work as suppressive therapy for genital herpes, ensuring that the blisters will not flare-up in the future. The tablets work by targeting only the infected cells, actively attacking the virus, suppressing it and stopping it from growing any more. Consequently, this herpes treatment is incredibly effective and most experience a rapid improvement in their herpes outbreak within 24 to 48 hours.
If you have experienced multiple outbreaks within a year-long period, the same oral antiviral medication can be used as a preventative treatment. Taking these tablets continuously helps many HSV carriers alleviate the stress of transmission, whilst suppressing any further outbreaks.
Please note that it is important you are assessed by a medical professional as this medication is only effective on HSV, it will not work against other viral or sexually-transmitted infections.
If you are experiencing a painful and uncomfortable outbreak of herpes, with sore blisters and lesions, the best course of action is to get seen by a sexual health clinician as soon as possible. At Midland Health, we offer appointments with qualified professionals as and when you need them. There is no need to feel embarrassed, our expert GPs are on hand to provide confidential and discreet appointments allowing you to address any discomfort you are experiencing from the herpes simplex virus.
At our state-of-the-art medical centre in Birmingham, our sexual health clinicians and GPs are able to help you understand, alleviate and manage the symptoms of your herpes. At Midland Health, we are proud to set ourselves apart through:
To book an appointment with our sexual health clinic, contact our expert GPs today at our Birmingham centre on 0121 768 0999. Or, submit an enquiry using the form below and a member of the Midland Health team will be in touch.
*Notice some prices may not include the appointment fee.
What Our Patients Say About Us
373 Total Reviews
Average Rating 4.7
Its very good clinic and Dr Bhavik it’s very friendly ,I’m very happy for this consultation thanke you ❤️😘😘😘
Gesta Metaj | 2nd Feb 2023
Midland Health
Great service overall. I highly recommend it.
Alejandro Garcia Rosellon | 11th Jan 2023
Midland Health
Honestly not sure at first but less hassle, than my own doctor i didn't feel like I was on the clock and sadly at my NHS doctor I do. if you have genuine health needs and time is...
J K | 4th Jan 2023
Midland Health
Everything was perfect and fast I like this place
Kitty Kocsis | 13th Dec 2022
Midland Health
Excellent services, very friendly and polite staff. Would highly recommend to friends and family. Overall satisfied, will be going back for other health concerns and advice. Thank you
Amliah S | 13th Dec 2022
Midland Health
I first consulted a lady GP here earlier this year and I was pleased with how she investigated my case. Recently I consulted Dr Kasparis, the Dermatologist on the recommendation of that GP. I had seen another Dermatologist previously but was not...
yxnone | 9th Dec 2022
Midland Health
As a general rule, doctors tend to make very bad patients and I am no exception. But my recent experience at Midland Health in Birmingham, was really first-class. Briefly, I had developed a small lesion – rather like...
David Ashton | 28th Nov 2022
Midland Health
I went to see Dr Christos Kasparis about a couple of ongoing skin issues to which had been treated by NHS before but had sadly relapsed, and waiting times were over a year. Here, I was seen within 3 weeks...
Mark Withers | 24th Nov 2022
Midland Health
I often use Midland Health and on this occasion I went to see Dr Parmar with a gynecological concern. She was excellent in knowledge advice and service. I had an ultrasound organised within 24hrs and the results the same day....
Liz Garnham | 23rd Nov 2022
Midland Health
Outstanding From the moment I sent the first email with our enquiry to the moment we left our appointment. The staff we have dealt with have been super efficient and very professional We are very impressed with this clinic and would highly recommend. Emails...
Jessica Makin | 17th Nov 2022
Midland Health
They gave me the appointment so quickly. All the starts for the guy who made the blood test. Absolutely perfect , no pain and so quickly done . a bit expensive but staff amazing and results came back in time
Maria Timis | 17th Nov 2022
Midland Health
Dr Pav Dhesi was very professional, detailed and helpful, I would definitely recommend this service.
Corena Bayley-Williams | 2nd Nov 2022
Midland Health
Very easy to organise PCR test for my daughter before travelling. The service from start to finish was professional, helpful and customer - focused. I would highly recommend Midland Health and would use again in future.
R Gill | 26th Oct 2022
Midland Health
Fantastic Service - got a very quick appointment and couldn’t do enough for me. Highly recommend
Neil Rainbow | 23rd Oct 2022
Midland Health
Fast and efficient service in very pleasant surroundings from friendly and helpful staff at a reasonable cost. I have used this service several times now for travelling PCR/Antigen tests. The results came through in a few hours, which...
Maureen Westwood | 17th Oct 2022
Midland Health
I really enjoyed my visit here it was very warm and welcoming. My visit here was made special thanks to Verona who was very kind and in all honestly I was having a bad week in general her kindness and...
sophie zamir | 12th Oct 2022
Midland Health
I had a Paediatric Ultrasound done for my daughter today on the mastoid bone I can't thank the lady enough she made us feel at ease during my daughters ultrasound she talked us through everything we left very happy I...
Chantell | 27th Aug 2022
Midland Health
Warm
RX L | 22nd Aug 2022
Midland Health
Excellent service. Referred myself for an ultrasound scan on my achilles tendon. Very pleasant environment, knowledgeable staff, good value for money and piece of mind for me.
PHILIP BRIDGEWATER | 11th Jul 2022
Midland Health
Professional and clean. Helpful staff and well equipped clinic.
Pratap Sisodiya | 10th Jul 2022
Midland Health
Nice
Mohammad Abu | 6th Jul 2022
Midland Health
I came to Midland Health for the new Rhinolight treatment, it consisted of 6 treatments over the course of two weeks (1 treatment every other day). The treatment itself was quick and painless, it has massively helped my allergies since...
Zuryte | 4th Jul 2022
Midland Health
Just completed the 6 session rhinolight therapy since I've had severe hayfever since I was young and every other medication (over the counter and prescription) had stopped working a long time ago for me. I definitely can feel a massive...
Sehrish Ramay | 1st Jul 2022
Midland Health
I had my double PCR and antigen done at Midland Health Birmingham. Firstly the staff were very helpful answering my many emails before the tests to reassure my travel arrangements. Secondly the staff in the clinic were friendly and efficient....
Jolene Neil | 29th Jun 2022
Midland Health
The best private clinic. I highly recommend it
Roxana Rotaru | 31st May 2022
Midland Health
Excellent service, I would definitely recommend Midland Health. I had not used them previously but my friend has used them for a PCR test to travel. I needed a supervised Antigen test so booked an appointment for 3pm. We were seen...
Annette Williams | 30th May 2022
Midland Health
Paid for a private consult with the ENT for my toddler due to speech delay and tongue tie and the NHS waiting times being very long. Dr. Parmar was thoughtful, kind, and patient even when my toddler was not. He...
Trina Luciano | 23rd May 2022
Midland Health
I used the Edgbaston Clinic. Easy to use booking system & I was able to get an appointment the following day to fit with my schedule. Great instructions and clinic contact after the booking. Lovely facilities with easy parking access....
Pilates Studio Owner | 23rd May 2022
Midland Health
I made an appointment after feeling let down by my NHS GP. I had a video consultation and following this I was advised to come into the clinic. I was made to feel welcome and comfortable. The Dr I saw...
Sherisha Richards | 16th May 2022
Midland Health
I found Midland Health to be first class. I was able to get an appointment very quickly for an ECG and then a competent GP to explain it to me. Altogether I was delighted with the service and would recommend...
Christine Walton | 7th May 2022
Midland Health
Took my toddler there for a next day booking appointment, and it was a very uplifting experience for us. Very nice doctor, absolutely fantastic with our child, very gentle. It will help her not be scared of doctors anymore.
aidosirak | 6th May 2022
Midland Health
I would highly highly recommend your Edgbaston clinic especially Dr Dhesi. She was amazing! So caring kind and made sure my visit was as comfortable as possible. Incredible service!
Emma Mcdonald | 3rd May 2022
Midland Health
We took our 8 week old son to see Mr Amit Parmar (ENT Surgeon) with regards to a suspected tongue tie. It turns out he had a moderate tie and we chose to have it cut on the day of the...
Marie Holmes | 28th Apr 2022
Midland Health
5 stars is only one rate I could give for so friendly and professional help received from Dr Dhesi and reception staff. Thank you
mateusz szostak | 23rd Apr 2022
Midland Health
it was very easy to book appointment with specialist due to our concerns with our young son where GP was telling us it would 6 -9 months before NHS specialist could see him, we were seen within week at Midland...
Mo Shafiq | 13th Apr 2022
Midland Health
The centrea staff are very friendly and they send very quickly the result of the test I recommend every one to chose this centre.
Shah Hemmat | 6th Apr 2022
Midland Health
Professional and affordable. I got my lateral flow test here for my holiday. I received my results very quickly. The building is lovely too. Would recommend. I'll be booking my mom in next
Arousa N | 26th Mar 2022
Midland Health
Visited Midland Health to take the two PCR tests required for travel to China. Location easy to find, easy check in, under a minutes wait to be shown into the surgery by the doctor, tests taken and results back same...
Steve Bisney | 15th Mar 2022
Midland Health
We needed a health certificate urgently, so booked an appointment with Midland Health. Got the first appointment at 10a.m. They phoned at exactly 10. The lady was very clear and helpful with the information she needed. ...
Sue Heath | 15th Mar 2022
Midland Health
Easy to make appointment, staff was very friendly and my rapid PCR test results came on time and was able to fly to USA. I thank you for your service, very much appreciated.
1963ike | 7th Mar 2022
Midland Health
£117.70
* Swab or Blood Appointment Fee is not included in the price
£130.90
* Swab or Blood Appointment Fee is not included in the price
£443.30*
HIV 1&2/p24 Ag/Syphilis IgG/IgM/7 STI by PCR Screen/Throat Swab CT/GC/Rectal Swab CT/GC/Macrolide Resistance Test (M.gen)* Hep B sAg/Hep C Abs (* Swab or Blood Appointment Fee is not included in the price)
£35
£70
(15 min)
£125.50
* Swab or Blood Appointment Fee is not included in the price
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is extremely contagious and easily passed between people through direct contact with an infected person, especially during sexual intercourse (oral, anal or vaginal). While most people are unaware they have been infected and carry the HSV, there are certain triggers that can activate an outbreak of blisters/lesions, commonly recognised as genital herpes.
As herpes is a viral infection, it cannot be cured literally. But, with effective medicines it is possible to be managed, stopping you from passing it to a partner.
Common side effects of the treatment include:
Your partner should only seek medical treatment if they have a herpetic lesion or need suppressive therapy.
Unfortunately, genital herpes is a viral infection that will always be present in your body. However, with general good health and a strong immune system, you should be able to manage the symptoms, even the blisters/lesions.
Herpes is a highly contagious virus that is easily transmitted when the infected person is experiencing blisters and lesions. These blisters can be genital lesions or cold sores around the mouth. Do not have sexual intercourse (oral, anal or vaginal) with an infected person with genital blisters as this will reduce your chances of becoming infected with the virus. Even with a condom, during a herpes outbreak, you cannot guarantee the condom will cover all genital sores.
There is no need to get re-tested unless you start experiencing symptoms, fall pregnant or are planning to have a baby.
While some people’s symptoms heal and go away without intervention. With treatment and medical consultations, it is possible to stop your symptoms from progressing before they get better. It also reduces the risk of complications occurring.
There are a few recommendations to help alleviate the pain or distress you are experiencing from herpes; however, seeking professional medical advice is a must. After consulting a sexual health clinician, in addition to not touching your blisters, it is also possible to try the following:
Saltwater Baths – Soaking the affected areas for 5-20 minutes in warm water and table salt can help to alleviate your discomfort. This process can be repeated twice a day while you are experiencing your symptoms, patting the area dry with a clean towel after a soak. As a rough guide, one handful of salt is enough for a shallow standard bath (approximately 1 teaspoon to a pint)
Painkillers – Over the counter painkillers may also help to provide some relief. Speak to a qualified pharmacist for their advice on taking the medication.
Cold Compress/Ice Pack – Always wrap an ice pack or compress in a towel before applying it to your affected area.
Petroleum Jelly – Applying this jelly to your inflamed skin can add to its healing process, creating a water-protective layer and locking in the moisture.
Loose Clothing – Avoid tight and clingy clothing on top of your infected area, the friction clothing cause will only further irritate your skin.
Avoid Sexual Intercourse – While you are experiencing symptoms and blisters/lesions, do not engage in oral, anal or vaginal sex under your symptoms have healed. Doing so could risk the blisters opening up and passing the infection to your sexual partner.
Midland Health has partnered with a highly reputable online pharmacy provider, Cloud Rx to ensure you receive your prescriptions directly to your home address as a next-day service. This way, you can be sure the medicine is available and delivered directly to your home or nominated address. No need for paper prescriptions or to have to go to multiple pharmacies to find the medicine that has been issued by our Midland Health doctors to you. To find out more about our digital prescription service please click here.
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