How to Recognize the Symptoms of Genital Herpes

It can be very difficult to accurately recognize the symptoms of genital herpes. This is because the symptoms of genital herpes often mimic other, more commonly experienced ailments, such as the flu or a yeast infection. In fact, it is estimated that one in every five American adults has genital herpes, yet 90 percent of these people are unaware they have it.

Things You'll Need

• Hand-held mirror

Show More

Instructions

Recognize the Symptoms of Genital Herpes

• 1

  Consult a physician if you experience any of the following symptoms in the genital region that seem abnormal: a rash or small bumps on the skin, painful urination, discharge from the vagina, tingling, itching or burning in one area of the genitals.

• 2

  Know that the symptoms of genital herpes can appear within just a few days after exposure. The first sign of herpes infection is the appearance of small, red blisters. These blisters usually develop into ulcers within a couple of days and eventually scab over.

• 3

  Pay attention to the certain parts of your body where genital herpes symptoms are most likely to occur. These places include the ****, scrotum, anus, vagina, thighs and buttocks. You may need to use a hand-held mirror to check these places thoroughly.

• 4

  Make a note of often symptoms occur. Genital herpes outbreaks occur as seldom as once per year. However, some individuals may have them as much as once per week. Subsequent outbreaks tend to be less painful and last for shorter amounts of time.

• 5

  Be on the lookout for swelling in the groin area. This is caused by infected lymph nodes and can be one of the earliest symptoms of genital herpes.