Herpes genitalis was most frequently encountered in women of low socioeconomic status and during pregnancy. Mean age at detection was 27 years, and over 75% of the women were between 15 and 29 years. Approximately one third of the patients were asymptomatic and had no genital lesions. The nature and severity of the symptoms, the type, location and extent of genital lesions are discussed in relation to primary and recurrent disease. Herpes genitalis developing during pregnancy did not increase fetal mortality. Detection by suitably collected cellular samples was possible in over 95% of the patients. Antibody titer was important in evaluating primary and recurrent disease. Treatment was symptomatic. The possible role of herpes virus infection in carcinogenesis of cervical cancer is discussed.