What is anal herpes, and how is it diagnosed and treated safely in Europe?

Anal herpes explained: herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2), symptoms, transmission, testing, and antiviral treatment criteria.

In this episode, we outline how herpes can affect the anal and perianal area and how doctors assess symptoms during an online consultation in the EU.

You’ll learn:

• How anal herpes is transmitted (skin-to-skin sexual contact)

• Early symptoms such as tingling, burning, or itching before blisters appear

• Typical lesions: painful fluid-filled blisters that may ulcerate

• Associated symptoms such as rectal pain, discharge, or swollen lymph nodes

• When PCR swab testing is used for confirmation

• When antiviral medications such as aciclovir or valaciclovir may be considered

• Situations where treatment requests may be declined without clear diagnosis

We explain how doctors assess lesion appearance (including photo review where appropriate), symptom timing, recurrence pattern, immune status, pregnancy considerations, and co-infection risk before prescribing. Not all anal pain or sores are caused by herpes, and accurate diagnosis is essential.

This episode reflects the clinical standards used by Mobi Doctor, where STI-related consultations are reviewed by a registered physician in line with EU medical guidance.

Read the full guide and transcript here:

https://www.mobidoctor.eu/blog/anal-herpes