The doctor will need to examine the genital area to make a diagnosis. Sometimes the symptoms of genital herpes are so typical that the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis straight away, however this should always be confirmed by a swab test to detect the virus. Remember, people who present with so-called typical lesions are the minority. If you notice any blistering, swelling or cracks in the skin, do not squeeze these areas, as it will not help the healing, and it may cause further infection. Do not apply any medications or 'natural remedies' to the area prior to medical consultation as these may make diagnosis more difficult.
Many topical agents e.g. antiseptics, can burn the genital area and disrupt the healing.
Even if the doctor thinks that the infection is definitely herpes, a swab should be taken to confirm the diagnosis. When the herpes outbreak is mild, the swab may not pick up the virus, and some people have repeated swabs with recurrent outbreaks before the diagnosis is confirmed. Therefore, it is most commonly transmitted during intimate sexual contact. Many people first discover they have the infection at some time during the course of a long-term, monogamous relationship. Evidence of infection in a long-term relationship does not necessarily indicate that there have been other, recent sexual partners.