Gf's symptoms concerning me

[tmac1421]

Hi Docs,

Was having sex with my gf and noticed she had broken out into a considerable rash on her buttocks.  Red bumps on both sides on her butt cheeks, but no blisters or scabbing.  I didn't mention anything to her because I didn't want to concern her in case it was something else, but should I mention to her the possibility of herpes?

Thanks,

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

There is no "bilateral debate".  Recurrent herpes is always limited to one side of the body's midline or the other.  Lesions can occur up to (or in) the midline, but not across it to involve both sides.

[tmac1421]

What about this whole "bi-lateral" debate?  Is it true that if on the buttocks herpes will only show up on one side?

Last question, thanks again.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

OK, I get it. No, I see no reason to raise herpes as a likely possibility of her skin rash.  If she had initial herpes, it would involve the gentials (vulva, labia, vaginal opening) or the anus, not the buttocks.  Recurrent herpes sometimes occurrs on the buttocks, but not the first occurrence.

[tmac1421]

What I meant about that comment is should I bring it up, I don't have it as far as I know..this is why I am concerned.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

From your description, I doubt your partner's rash is due to gential herpes.  But she obviously should see a provider about it and let the provider figure it out.

Presumably "should I mention the possibility of herpes" means you have genital herpes, or maybe oral herpes.  If so, of course you should tell her, regardless of her rash.  You should have done that before ever having sex with her.

Good luck--  HHH, MD