Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects approximately 20 percent of females between the ages of 14 and 49, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This viral infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus and can spread to intimate partners during sexual activities. Sexually active females should discuss female genital herpes symptoms with a gynecologist.
Asymptomatic
Genital herpes does not always cause symptoms (asymptomatic), which may cause females to be unaware that they have this infection, explain doctors at The Mayo Clinic. Asymptomatic females with genital herpes can still spread this infection to other people during sexual contact. Sexually active women should receive regular checkups for genital herpes and other sexually transmitted diseases. Be sure to use a male or female condom during any type of sexual interaction with a partner to prevent transmission of this infection.
Vaginal Itching or Pain
A female with genital herpes can experience vaginal itching or pain as a symptom of this infection, explains Medline Plus, an online medical resource provided by the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Sensations of itching may also be accompanied by a vaginal rash and can cause a female to frequently scratch at her genital region. Certain females can develop unusual vaginal discharge or may experience difficulty urinating. These genital herpes symptoms can also be signs of alternate vaginal infections, such as a urinary tract infection or a yeast infection, and should be evaluated by a gynecologist to ensure they receive the appropriate treatment.
Vaginal Skin Lesions
Vaginal skin lesions can develop in females who have genital herpes, explains the CDC. These skin lesions may begin as a genital rash that develops into pus- or fluid-filled blisters along the outside of the vaginal or anus. Genital herpes skin lesions can feel uncomfortable and may cause sensations of pain during sexual intercourse or urination. Vaginal skin blisters can burst and may form a dry, yellowish crust that flakes off as the skin lesions heals. These genital herpes outbreak symptoms typically last for one to two weeks and can occur sporadically throughout an infected female's life.
Flu-like Symptoms
Flu-like symptoms can occur as a sign of genital herpes in certain females. These symptoms can include fever, muscle or body aches, chills, headache, malaise, decreased appetite or swollen lymph nodes, and typically arise within two weeks following exposure to this virus, explains Medline Plus. A female who develops flu-like symptoms should seek additional medical care as these side effects of genital herpes can indicate other medical problems.
