subject: Initial Genital Herpes Outbreak - Are You Having a Herpes Outbreak or is it Something Else? [print this page] So you've recently had unprotected sex, and now a few days or weeks later you've got some strange things happening 'downstairs'? If this is the case, the first thing I should tell you is don't panic. There is a huge variety of possible reasons behind these strange happenings, and the best thing you can do is head straight to the doctor for a proper diagnosis. However, given that Genital Herpes is an incredibly common and misunderstood sexually transmitted disease, we'll lay out what the initial Genital Herpes outbreak can look and feel like, so you can have some idea of what might be going on.
Genital Herpes is usually caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, although Type 1 can also cause genital herpes, this is not as common. The initial genital herpes outbreak or first episode of the virus flaring up can take on a variety of symptoms. These symptoms will vary from person to person, and may be severe or mild, again depending on the person. Many people will experience no symptoms at all, and this is the reason why the disease is so very common in the United States today, with around one in six people infected.
An initial genital herpes outbreak is often the worst and most severe you are likely to experience. You may experience pain, itching and tingling in the genital area, as well as swelling and an itchy rash on and around the penis or vagina. Soon after these symptoms appear, you may notice the arrival of small blisters. These blisters most commonly appear on the penis or labia, but can also appear on the groin, buttocks, upper thighs, and around the anus. They can be small clusters of pimple sized sores, or larger sores more widely spread. They can be quite itchy and painful.
These sores will eventually weep and burst, after which they will begin to heal. They almost always heal without leaving any scarring or marks. These outbreaks may occur on a monthly basis, or they may occur only a few times a year.
If you suspect you may have experienced the initial genital herpes outbreak, please seek treatment as soon as possible. Herpes can be controlled and kept at bay with proper treatment and lifestyle, and outbreaks can be reduced in frequency and severity. There are a variety of treatments to choose from, ranging from medicinal anti-virals to effective and side-effect free natural treatments.
Initial Genital Herpes Outbreak - Are You Having a Herpes Outbreak or is it Something Else?
