Learn more about the symptoms of genital herpes, what it feels like, how to manage it and what to expect.
Genital Herpes Symptoms
Most people with genital herpes either have no symptoms or mild symptoms. Even mild symptoms may go unnoticed. For this reason, many people may be unaware they have herpes.
If symptoms occur, they may include one or a cluster of blister-like sores in the genital area, which may be painful. This is referred to as having an outbreak. Sometimes, these sores may be mistaken for other conditions like ingrown hairs or pimples.
Along with sores, it is also possible to experience flu-like symptoms. These may include:
Muscle painHeadacheSwollen lymph nodes, in particular in the groin areaFatigueFever
What Does Genital Herpes Feel Like?
Many people will never notice they have genital herpes and won’t feel any symptoms.
Before sores from genital herpes appear on the skin, a person with genital herpes may experience symptoms of a burning sensation or tingling in the area where a sore will soon appear. There may also be an itchy feeling or a feeling of discomfort in the genital area.
Before sores develop, there may also be a tingling or burning feeling when urinating. If a blister from genital herpes bursts, this may leave behind sores that can be painful.
Managing Genital Herpes
There is no cure for genital herpes, but options are available for managing the condition.
Medications can shorten the duration of herpes outbreaks and also make them less likely to occur. Daily herpes medication can also reduce the chances of an infection being passed on to a sexual partner.
If sores from herpes become uncomfortable, steps can be taken to manage any discomfort. These include:
Wearing clothes that are loose and soft to touchUsing an ice pack on sores that cause discomfortKeeping the genital area dryHaving a warm bathUsing a pain reliever like aspirin, Tylenol (acetaminophen), or Advil (ibuprofen)
It is important not to touch sores from herpes or the fluids from the sores. Doing this can cause the infection to be transmitted to other parts of the body. If your hands come into contact with a sore or fluids, wash them immediately to avoid transmitting the infection.
Genital herpes outbreaks can occur again and again. The exact trigger for an outbreak of herpes is unknown and can be due to a variety of factors. These include:
StressSurgerySexMenstruationOther infections
What to Expect
Herpes is common. Genital herpes can be acquired by anyone who has had sex. You may be concerned about how it can affect your intimate relationships or fear possible stigma, Know that many people have happy lives and relationships even with herpes.
In those who are immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system), herpes can come back more often and also cause more severe symptoms. Though rare, possible complications may include:
Brain infection Spread of infection to other systems of the body Eye infection
If an infant is exposed to the herpes virus during delivery, they may acquire neonatal herpes. This occurs in 10 in every 100,000 births globally. It is serious and can be life-threatening.
If you receive a diagnosis of genital herpes, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding treatment. Reaching out to a trusted friend or even a support group may also help if you are struggling.
It is also important you tell anyone you have recently had or intend to have sex with about your diagnosis.
If you have herpes and are pregnant, this can lead to complications for you and the fetus. You can also transmit the herpes infection to your baby. During pregnancy, it is important to be upfront with your healthcare provider about your herpes status.
Regardless of whether or not you receive treatment, outbreaks from genital herpes often get shorter and milder as time passes.
Summary
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection. Many people with the infection may not notice it due to having mild or no symptoms. Some people may experience itching or a burning sensation before sores develop. The sores may be painful.
Other symptoms, including flu-like symptoms, may accompany genital herpes. There is no cure for genital herpes, but the condition can be managed with medication, and outbreaks will decrease with time.
A Word From Verywell
It can be uncomfortable or embarrassing to deal with a sexually transmitted infection. But it is important to remember genital herpes is common. If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate herpes, or believe you may have been exposed to the virus, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider.
