Symptoms vary Some people do not experience a severe first episode and just notice occasionally recurring sores or blisters on the genitals that come and go at irregular intervals lasting 3 to 5 days. Other people may have 'atypical' symptoms such as a 'pimple ' that comes and goes or a 'crack ' in their skin around the genital area . Yet other people may experience a severe first episode and then not have any further recurrences. For some people, recurrences can be reasonably frequent and physically uncomfortable, usually presenting as clusters of blisters which burst, forming ulcers, which crust over and heal. Areas affected In women, the genital areas most affected are the vulva and the entrance to the vagina.
Sores can sometimes develop on the cervix.
In men, sores are most common on the end of the penis, the foreskin and shaft of the penis. Sometimes, sores can develop on the testicles. Less commonly both men and woman can experience sores on the anus, buttocks and tops of the thighs. If you have concerns, or think you may have genital herpes, talk to your doctor. Accurate diagnosis of genital herpes is made most easily and correctly at the time of first infection.