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.
Contro's Partner Doctors are able to assist you with obtaining the correct antiviral treatment plan for Genital Herpes. Sign up here, book a private and affordable consultation and get your medication delivered free to your door in discreet packaging.
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.
Contro's Partner Doctors are able to assist you with obtaining the correct antiviral treatment plan for Genital Herpes. Sign up here, book a private and affordable consultation and get your medication delivered free to your door in discreet packaging.
Updated on: 21/02/2024
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