Genital herpes is an infection most often caused by herpes simplex virus type 2. HSV-1 often causes oral herpes but it can also spread to the genitals. The American Academy of Dermatology points out that sexual intercourse proves the most frequent source of spreading the infection. Once an individual contracts the virus, it may take between two and 20 days before visible symptoms occur.
Prodrome Symptoms
Prodrome, or warning, symptoms may not be recognized during the first outbreak of genital herpes. The warning symptoms tend to include redness, tingling, pain, sensitivity and itching wherever blisters appear. For women they tend to occur on the vagina, vulva, buttocks, anus or thighs, according to the American Social Health Association. Men tend to have symptoms on the penis, scrotum, testicles, buttocks, anus or thighs. Prodrome symptoms may occur more often with a recurrent herpes outbreak instead of the one following the contraction of the virus.
Blister Stage
Within one or two days of experiencing prodrome symptoms blisters will begin to appear. FamilyDoctor.org points out that the blisters often prove small and painful, and full of fluid that is clear or cloudy. The area beneath and around the blisters will become red. Urinating or having sex often proves painful. Intercourse during this stage is not advised, as the virus is contagious. Some flu-like symptoms can accompany the blisters including body aches and a fever. The American Social Health Association points out that sometimes the blisters go unrecognized or are misattributed to a pimple, insect bite or other blemish.
Ulcer Stage
About two or three days, after the blisters appear they will burst and become ulcers, or open wounds. The liquid that oozes from the blister can be either clear or bloody. Ulcers may also feel very painful and the fluids are contagious. The American Social Health Association explains that more blisters can crop up at this point or the blisters may begin to heal.
Scab Stage
Over the next two or three days the ulcers will form yellow scabs that may fall off and reappear. Eventually the ulcer will heal completely and the skin will return to normal. Herpes do not usually cause scarring unless sufferers pick them or they become infected.
