Symptoms of Genital Herpes

The symptoms of genital herpes vary widely from person to person. Some people have severe symptoms (such as many painful sores), while others have mild symptoms. When symptoms of a first episode of genital herpes occur, they show up two to ten days after having sex with an infected person. These signs can last from two to three weeks. The early symptoms can include an itching or burning sensation; pain in the legs, buttocks, or genital area; vaginal discharge; or a feeling of pressure in the abdominal region.

Within a few days, sores (also called lesions) appear at the site of infection. Lesions can also occur on the cervix (opening to the uterus, or womb) in women or in the urinary passage in men. These small red bumps may develop into blisters or painful open sores. Over a period of days, the sores become crusted and then heal without scarring. Other symptoms of a first episode of genital herpes can include fever, headache, muscle aches, painful or difficult urination, vaginal discharge, and swollen glands in the groin area.

The symptoms of genital herpes may include:

• Small red bumps on the penis, vagina, or wherever the infection began. These bumps may become blisters or painful open sores.
• Itching or burning in the genital area.
• Pain in the legs, buttocks, or genital area.
• Vaginal discharge.
• Feeling pressure or discomfort around your stomach.
• Fever.
• Headache.
• Muscle aches.
• Pain when urinating.
• Swollen glands in the genital area.