Stages of genital herpes in men

[NYC2011]

I am hoping to get a clear explanation on the stages of genital herpes in men. I have checked virtually every source on the internet for a detailed answer to the stages/manifestation of an initial genital herpes outbreak in men and it seems like there are some gaps. I have been with a HSV+ woman for 4 months and I am constantly worried that I may become infected. We have always used a condom during sex but I know that does not entirely protect me from contracting the virus. This week I have experience what seems to be an unusual itching sensation in my groin (penis and scrotum). This lasted about 3 days and was moderately intense on day 2. This sensation has almost completely resolved itself but I find myself "grabbing" that area often. In addition, today I noticed what can best be described as some redness/irritation in the area of where my leg and my groin meet. The "redness/irritation" is not raised and is not sensitive to the touch. I have no other symptoms that seem to be common with HSV2 - sores or lesions, flu like symptoms, etc. With that said, is what I am experiencing sound like the beginning of a "first ever" outbreak? It seems like all the internet information jump from itching and tingling to open sores and lesions with nothing between. . .thoughts?

[NYC2011]

Thank you very much for your feedback, it has been very helpful. I have an appointment with my doctor in the next couple of days and see what he says.

My lady friend has HSV2 and is on daily surpressive therapy.

I will definitely check out the link you provided. Thanks again.

[Mistakeguy789]

I would like to make a comment first about your symptoms and then let's talk about your woman.

First off you I am sure will find you have jock itch.  IE: Fungal infection.  Best case see your doctor for proper work up.  But I think you will find they will agree.  Herpes in people (regardless of gender) will typically show with lesisons on their first outbreak and it will be painful.  We guys get those things on our legs due to sweat or rubbing of our underwear.  It happens.  

What type of HSV does your lady friend have?  If its type 1 it will reoccur less often and has very little viral shedding.  If she has HSV-2 and is on daily surpressive therapy and you avoid sexual contact during obvious genital symptoms of an outbreak you will have 96% chance a year to NOT get herpes.  Add a condom in and I am sure that number goes up.  

Taking proper precautions helps both you and your lady friend.  If you give us more info on her case we can point you into some proper info.

You may also want to check out the herpes handbook found at www.westoverheights.com which has a lot of good information.