Genital Herpes Symptoms: What to Expect & When

Genital herpes is a condition caused by infection with one of the herpes simplex viruses (HSV) Genital herpes is usually caused by HSV-2, but it can sometimes result from HSV-1 (the cold-sore virus). Not all people develop symptoms of genital herpes, but in those that do, symptoms develop shortly after infection.

Time Frame

• The first symptoms of genital herpes infection generally develop within several weeks after contracting the virus, according to the Mayo Clinic. The first outbreak of genital herpes is normally the most severe outbreak a person will have.

Features

• First, pain or itching develop in the affected area, which may include the genitals, thighs, buttocks or anus. This is followed days later by a blistering rash, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sores heal within several days.

Effects

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a second outbreak of genital herpes may follow in the weeks or months after the first outbreak clears up.

Considerations

• Genital herpes symptoms can develop at any point after infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, the first outbreak may in some rare cases occur decades after infection.

Warning

• Most people who have genital herpes do not develop symptoms, or their symptoms are so mild that they go overlooked, according to the Mayo Clinic and the CDC.