Genital Bumps: Herpes or Something Else?

Q: Genital Bumps: Herpes or Something Else?

Hello： It is possible that an early infection may not be detectable and symptoms may not be obvious, leading to different diagnoses. <br>Currently, it is up to you to decide whether to seek medical attention or not. <br>Herpes presents as blisters and can cause wounds, so it is i

Lesions on the genitals resembling pimples?

My girlfriend has a sore in her mouth, and we had unprotected oral sex without cleaning up afterward.
The next day, she developed three pimple-like bumps on her genital area.
Two days later, we went to see a doctor who said it was inflammation and prescribed medication (MeiKang) and tested for STDs, all of which came back normal.
The doctor also said the report was fine.
However, after that, two more bumps appeared (the original ones had already subsided).
The day before yesterday, we saw another doctor who diagnosed it as herpes, but the bumps are not itchy or painful, and there is no burning sensation when urinating, although there is some bladder discomfort and frequent urination.
The doctor said this was due to anxiety and advised boosting her immune system, prescribing Anters cream and oral medication.
After using it for two days, the bumps disappeared, but now there are three red spots that are painful to touch.
Can we confirm that this is the herpes virus? (However, there are no symptoms typically associated with herpes virus, such as blisters, fever, or scabbing.) Why are the two doctors' diagnoses so different? Should we see another doctor for a second opinion?

Xiao Xiao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/05

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is possible that an early infection may not be detectable and symptoms may not be obvious, leading to different diagnoses.
Currently, it is up to you to decide whether to seek medical attention or not.
Herpes presents as blisters and can cause wounds, so it is important to take care of the wounds by keeping them clean and dry.
Additionally, please pay attention to safe sexual practices.
If you experience urethral discharge, the presence of lumps in the urethra, or persistent redness of the skin, you should seek medical care.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/03/05

More Info

Understanding genital bumps can be quite complex, especially when it comes to differentiating between various conditions such as herpes and other dermatological issues. Based on the details you've provided, it seems like you've already consulted with healthcare professionals who have given you varying diagnoses. Let's break down the situation and provide some clarity.

Firstly, herpes simplex virus (HSV) can manifest in various ways. The classic presentation includes painful blisters or sores, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever or malaise. However, not everyone experiences the typical symptoms. Some individuals may have mild symptoms or even be asymptomatic, which can lead to confusion in diagnosis. The fact that you mentioned the bumps did not itch or hurt, and there was no burning sensation while urinating, does not completely rule out herpes, but it does make it less likely.

The initial diagnosis of inflammation and the prescription of medication (美康) suggests that the doctor may have thought the bumps were due to a non-viral cause, such as folliculitis or another type of dermatitis. The subsequent diagnosis of herpes, despite the absence of classic symptoms, raises questions. It's important to note that herpes can sometimes present with atypical symptoms, and the diagnosis can be confirmed through laboratory tests, such as PCR or viral culture, which can detect the presence of the virus.

The appearance of new bumps after initial treatment could indicate a few possibilities:
1. Recurrent herpes: If the initial diagnosis was correct, the virus can reactivate, leading to new lesions.

2. Other infections or irritations: Conditions like molluscum contagiosum, folliculitis, or even contact dermatitis could present similarly.

3. Misdiagnosis: It's possible that the initial diagnosis was incorrect, leading to confusion about the nature of the bumps.

Given that your symptoms have evolved and you are experiencing pain in the red areas, it would be prudent to seek a second opinion. Consulting a dermatologist or a specialist in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) could provide more insight. They may recommend further testing, such as a swab of the lesions for viral culture or PCR testing, which can definitively identify HSV.

Additionally, addressing your concerns about immune health is essential. Stress and anxiety can indeed impact your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep can help bolster your immune response.

In summary, while the initial and subsequent diagnoses may seem conflicting, it’s crucial to pursue further evaluation to clarify the nature of your symptoms. A specialist can provide a more comprehensive assessment and guide you on the appropriate treatment. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns and symptoms is vital for effective management.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Genital Bumps: Is It Herpes or Something Else?

Hello doctor! After having a circumcision in January, I noticed a small bump on my genital area in April. By July, it had increased to three bumps (they feel hard but otherwise don’t hurt much). I went to the hospital for an examination, and the doctor mentioned it could be herpe...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: This area cannot be diagnosed without examination. Redness indicates infection, so it is important to maintain cleanliness and check for any wounds. If there is a wound, medical attention should be sought. Herpes appears as blister-like lesions, often consisting of multipl...

Understanding Bumps on the Penis: Herpes, Allergies, or Eczema?

Due to my frequent sexual activity this month with three girlfriends, I've noticed that over the past two days, my glans has developed many small bumps that resemble "heat rash." They feel like little bumps when I touch them (not very noticeable), but they are neit...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
The behavior you described is quite dangerous. Generally, herpes presents with blisters. Your situation could be due to an infection or an allergy to the fluid from the condom (assuming you used one). Of course, it could also be a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It would be...

Understanding Genital Symptoms: Is It Herpes or a Common Infection?

I would like to ask about my boyfriend. He does not have herpes, and he used a condom during our sexual intercourse. However, 1-2 days after we had sex, I started to notice small bumps that resemble either rashes or blisters in my genital area. They are very itchy and somewhat pa...

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, please visit the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic for a medical examination to identify the cause of your condition so that appropriate treatment can be administered.

Identifying Bumps in the Pubic Area: Warts or Herpes?

I would like to ask about a small flesh-colored bump that has appeared in the pubic area for several months. How can I distinguish whether it is a wart or herpes?

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Herpes presents as blisters. It is advisable to see a doctor for confirmation. Of course, what you may have could be a normal gland, but it is essential to consult a doctor for verification. Thank you for your inquiry.