What is the difference between initial outbreaks and recurrent genital herpes outbreaks?

Most individuals infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2 show no symptoms or have mild symptoms that go unnoticed or can be mistaken for another skin condition. Genital Herpes symptoms can occur at any time, from days to years after infection. Unfortunately, Genital Herpes cannot be cured, only managed.

Initial outbreak of genital herpes

An initial episode or outbreak of Genital Herpes tends to occur 4 - 7 days after transmission. Symptoms can include:

• Flu-like symptoms, with muscle aches and fever typically lasting a week
• Pain in the genital area, buttocks, lower back, or legs
• Painful blisters in or on the anus, penis, vagina, genital area, buttocks and legs which burst to leave ulcers in/on the affected area(s) and can last up to 20 days
• Swollen and/or tender glands in the groin, usually on both sides
• Painful urination
• Unusual discharge from your vagina
• Unusual discharge from your penis

Recurrent outbreak of genital herpes

It is common for those who have contracted HSV-1 to have at least one flare-up every 12-month period. For those who have contracted HSV-2, this can be as many as four or more over the same period.

When a recurrent outbreak occurs, symptoms usually reappear in the same area, and you may experience

• Localised pain, burning, or tingling up to 2 days before blisters appear
• Painful blisters or ulcers in the anus or genital area, usually on one side, which typically harden or crust up and heal in around 10 days
• Swollen and/or tender glands in the groin, usually on both sides

It is estimated that 80% of people will not experience symptoms, however, it is still possible to pass Genital Herpes on to others through the transmission.

Updated on: 21/02/2024