Herpes or ingrown hair

Hello, I just noticed a little bump on the base of my penis.  I have just popped it and little pus came out.  I have not had sex in 6 months and it was protected sex.  I just want to know if it is possible for herpes to show 6 months after a sexual encounter or would it present itself earlier than that.  Thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like infected hair follicle rather than herpes sores. Most individuals have no or only minimal signs or symptoms from HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. When signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters. The blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur.

Please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.