Herpes?

I developed an red sore area about the size of a nickle just below the head of my penis about a month ago.  There were no blisters but it did scab over.  I thought it was healed and had sex with my wife and it became "raw" again and scabed over again.  I have been with her for six years and faithful - both of us.  This is the first time anything like this has happend.  Could I have herpes for six years with no symptoms, or is this possibly just an irritation that needs to heal.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I think it is irritation that just needs to heal.  Herpes lesions don't last a month.  I advise lubrication and minimizing friction till it heals over.  If that doesn't work in two weeks, you can show a doctor, but I don't think you'll have to.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff