Recurrent symptoms are not new infections. The discomfort varies from person to person and from time to time in the same person. The first herpes infection is much more uncomfortable than following ones. Transmittal of life-threatening systemic herpes to a newborn infant from an infected mother. Secondary bacterial infection.
Treatment is directed toward relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Women should wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. May use zinc oxide ointment over tender areas. To reduce pain during urination, woman may urinate in a shower, or urinate through a tubular device, such as a toilet-paper roll or plastic cup with the end cut out or pour a cup of warm water over genitals while urinating. Warm baths with a tablespoon of salt added can ease discomfort. Consider life-style changes to avoid emotional stress.