Herpe Symptoms Ruining My Life

[Danielle5723]

I am a 22 year old female and have been married for 2 years. I have what I believe are herpe symptom. I have never had an sore or lesion on my genital area but, for 5 months I have suffered from a burning and aching sensation that runs in my vagina, anus, and legs. My legs become numb and tingly. My vulva also has tingling sensations. I have been tested for herpes multiple times and have tested positive for type one (have had oral cold sores) and negative for type 2. I have seen 5 different obgyns and the keep ruling out herpes, but don't have an explanation. These problems seem to worsen during my period and can continue for weeks. It has ruined my sex life and my mental state is not well due to this pain. My husband has never had any unusual symptoms and was a virgin when we married due to religious beliefs. If this does not sound like herpes what do you suggest I look into next? Could it be nerve damage?

Thank you.

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

You could certainly be sensitive to tampons or toilet paper or pads.  This could also be something bacterial in nature or fungal.  

If you have tested negative for HSV 2 multiple times, I really really doubt that this is herpes, even though you seem to strongly believe that's what it is.  Have any of these areas ever been swab tested for herpes in the past?  Have they been swab tested for bacterial or fungal infections?  

Terri

[Danielle5723]

Update. My vagina is red and irritated looking and after having a bowl movement I have noticed an anal fissure. Still no open sores or lesions but, I am worried after reading anal fissures are common with herpes. I have never had anal sex and do not allow oral sex to be given to me. I also forgot to mention my symptoms go away at night while sleeping and return/worsen as the day goes on.

[Danielle5723]

I'm sorry for yet another update but, I really want all my symptoms out on the table. The fissure seems to be on the skin between my anus and vaginal opening. The fissure is almost healed after 24 hours. I'm positive it's herpes. I mean what else could possibly cause sore legs and groin pain with a fissure and red irritation?! Could I be allergic to pads or tampons? So many questions. Googling my symptoms only confirm my fear. I have yet another obgyn appointment the up coming week. I'm sure it will only lead to being told there is no answer.  

[Danielle5723]

I went to have my fissure swabbed and she said it was so tiny it was no use and wants to do blood work for vitamin deficiency. Would irritation from pads or tampons cause creepy crawly feelings or my leg pain? Thanks for your response.

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

Irritation from pads or tampons could be an issue, sure.  I doubt that would give you leg pain or crawly feelings, but with several negative antibody tests, I believe herpes is not the cause either.  You seem so convinced you have herpes, not sure what else I can do to help you move past that as a cause, though.

Terri