Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), primarily HSV-2. It is estimated that one out of every six people between the ages of 14 to 49 in the United States has genital herpes.

While both men and women can contract this infection, the symptoms experienced by women can be different and more severe. It is essential for women to recognize the most common symptoms of genital herpes to seek proper medical attention and prevent further transmission.

1. Painful Blister or Sores

One of the hallmark symptoms of genital herpes in women is the development of painful blisters or sores in the genital area. These blisters initially appear as small red bumps and then progress into fluid-filled blisters.

They can be tender, itchy, and cause significant discomfort. The blisters eventually rupture, forming shallow ulcers that take time to heal.

2. Pain and Itching

Women with genital herpes often experience pain and itching in the affected area even before the appearance of blisters. This discomfort can be constant or intermittent and may worsen during urination or sexual intercourse.

Additionally, the skin surrounding the blisters may become sensitive to touch.

3. Flu-Like Symptoms

Many women with genital herpes may also develop flu-like symptoms, which can include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen glands in the groin area. These symptoms usually occur during the initial outbreak and can last for several days or weeks.

4. Vaginal Discharge

Some women infected with genital herpes may experience an abnormal vaginal discharge. The discharge can be watery, yellowish, or bloody. It may also have a foul odor. This discharge is a result of the inflammation and irritation caused by the virus.

5. Painful Urination

Due to the presence of blisters and ulcers in the genital area, women with genital herpes often experience pain or discomfort while urinating. The urine can irritate the open sores, causing a burning sensation during urination.

6. Swollen Lymph Nodes

The lymph nodes in the groin area may become enlarged and tender when infected with genital herpes. Swollen lymph nodes are the body’s response to an infection and indicate an active immune response to the virus.

7. Backache and Body Pain

Some women may experience backache and generalized body pain during a genital herpes outbreak. This can be attributed to the body’s immune response and the inflammation caused by the virus.

8. Shooting Nerve Pain

Genital herpes can cause a condition known as neuritis, which is inflammation of the nerves. Women may experience shooting or burning pain along the nerve pathways in the genital area and thighs.

This pain can be severe and persistent even after the visible symptoms have healed.

9. Flu-Like Prodrome

Before an outbreak occurs, many women with genital herpes experience a prodrome phase. This phase is characterized by flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, and feverishness.

These symptoms can last for a few days and serve as a warning sign of an impending outbreak.

10. Recurrent Outbreaks

After the initial outbreak, genital herpes becomes a lifelong infection. Women infected with HSV-2 may experience recurrent outbreaks in the future. The frequency and severity of these outbreaks vary from person to person.

Some women may have several outbreaks in a year, while others might have only one or two.

Conclusion

Recognizing the most common symptoms of genital herpes in women is crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and prevention of transmission.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or suspect you may have been exposed to genital herpes, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.