What’s the difference between genital herpes and genital warts?

Knowing the difference between genital herpes and genital warts is a chapter in STDs 101. But it’s easy to see why these STDs are often confused; both are viral STDs transmitted from skin-to-skin sexual contact that cause bumps, lesions or sores around the genitals. So what’s the difference?

Symptoms of genital herpes vs. symptoms of genital warts

First, it’s important to know both of these STDs can be asymptomatic. When symptoms are present, however, genital herpes is usually marked by painful, fluid-filled blisters around the genitals. These blisters will eventually break open, develop a crust and then heal after a few weeks. Sometimes, genital herpes symptoms can be so mild that outbreaks may be mistaken for jock itch or a yeast infection.

Genital warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, occur as raised, flesh-colored bumps. They can be small or occur as cauliflower-like clusters. Unlike genital herpes, these warts aren’t filled with pus or fluid, nor do they usually hurt, itch or burn.

STD testing for genital herpes and genital warts

Blood-based STD tests can diagnose genital herpes. STD testing for genital herpes should be performed with a type-specific test to determine which strain, HSV-1 or HSV-2, is causing symptoms.

Unlike herpes, there is no blood-based STD test to diagnose HPV or genital warts. When potential warts are present, a physician can do a physical exam though some warts may not be locate externally.

Differences in treatment for genital herpes and genital warts

While genital warts and genital herpes are predominately harmless, though neither are curable, proper treatment can reduce the chances of passing these infections on to partners. Genital warts must be frozen off or surgically removed by a doctor. A doctor can also prescribe a prescription cream, but over-the-counter warts removal should never be used to treat genital warts.

Genital herpes treatment is a little less invasive; this STD can be treated with daily antiviral medication that suppresses the herpes virus from resurfacing. Learn more about confidential testing with Get STD Tested.