Herpes or not?

[mj817723]

I recently posted a question about symtoms I've had recently. Of course I'm assuming the worst from it. Ive had a breakout in the genital area for a few days now. The last time this happened I was tested for herpes and it was negative but the outbreak was cleared up before I was tested so I am still uncertain, but the doctor told me I didn't have it. The last outbreak happens within 1 to 2 days after sex and this time it did the same. It doesnt happen everytime I have sex though. My question is, does herpes look like pimples with white heads and if so do they appear on the stomach area. The pimples are not clustered, the are in a rash form. They are not painful just itch a little so from what I've heard and what I've been told by the doctor, it can't be herpes because there isn't any pain.

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi,

Signs of herpes tend to develop within 3-7 days of skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Herpes infections look like small blisters or ulcers on the genitals and each blister or ulcer is typically only 1-3 millimeters in size, and they tend to be grouped into crops. Usually the blisters form first, then soon open to form ulcers. Herpes infections may be painless or slightly tender. In some people, however, the blisters or ulcers can be very tender and painful. In men, herpes sores usually appear on or around the penis. The ulcers or blisters may also be found anywhere around the genitals and in and around the anus. Some people develop other signs of herpes infection, particularly with the first episode such as fever , muscle aches , headaches painful urination or swollen and tender lymph glands in the groin.

If you have still doubts, you can have it tested again or look for antibodies of HSV in you blood. I hope this helps. Take care and regards.