Genital herpes is an infection caused by a virus known as 'herpes simplex'. There are two main types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Infection with HSV-2 is the most common cause of genital herpes. Infection with HSV-1 most usually results in cold sores on the face (although it can sometimes cause genital herpes). The symptoms of genital herpes are similar to having cold sores on your genitals. See Also - Genital Herpes: the facts      What are the symptoms of genital herpes?