First outbreak:
The symptoms of a first outbreak of genital herpes usually appear 2 to 10 days after exposure to herpes and last an average of 2 to 3 weeks. Many people who are newly infected with herpes overlook their symptoms either because the symptoms are mild or because they are unaware of the possibility of herpes infection.
Symptoms of a first genital herpes infection vary widely and may include any of the following (listed from most common to least common):
Blisters or other sores on the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, buttocks, or (rarely) elsewhere on the body.
Small red bumps usually appear first, then develop into blisters, and then become painful, open sores.
Over a period of days, the sores may scab over. Finally, they heal.
Mild symptoms that may be mistaken for other problems (e.g., yeast infection or jock itch), such as itching, irritation, or scratch-like sores.
Pain or discomfort around the genitals, buttocks, or legs.
Swollen lymph nodes in the groin.
Itching or burning during urination.
Constipation or difficulty urinating.
General symptoms, such as fever, headache or feeling rundown.
Not everyone has all these symptoms and some infected persons have no symptoms at all.
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Herpes