Many people with genital herpes have no symptoms or symptoms mild enough to miss. When an outbreak is noticeable, it often involves one or more blisters that break and leave painful sores around the genitals, rectum, or mouth. A first outbreak can also include fever, body aches, or swollen glands.

What an outbreak can look like

Herpes sores often begin as blisters and then become painful open sores. They can occur on the genitals, around the anus, or in the mouth. A first episode may feel more intense than later episodes. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe, and the number of outbreaks may decrease over time.

A pimple or ingrown hair can look similar. Looking at a photo or comparing symptoms online cannot establish the cause.

What these symptoms cannot tell you

Symptoms cannot confirm herpes, identify whether HSV-1 or HSV-2 is involved, or show whether a person can transmit the virus at a particular moment. A clinician can discuss an exam or testing based on the lesion and the situation.

A common misconception

Herpes does not always announce itself with an obvious outbreak. CDC says symptoms can be absent or mild, and mild symptoms may be mistaken for another skin condition. A clinician can discuss whether testing is useful.

What to do next

If you have a new sore or blister, arrange a clinical exam while the lesion is present. A clinician may swab it for a laboratory test. Tell them when it started, whether it has happened before, and where it is located. If you have no lesion, ask whether any testing is useful for your situation; blood tests have important limits.

Avoid sexual contact with an area that has sores or warning symptoms and follow the advice of your clinician. Herpes can spread even when skin looks normal, so discuss prevention and disclosure with a healthcare professional.

When to seek prompt care

See a healthcare provider if you notice these symptoms or if your partner has an STI or symptoms of one. If you are pregnant or have a suppressed immune system, tell your provider about possible herpes symptoms.

Sources and update note

Checked September 29, 2026. This guide uses CDC About Genital Herpes and the CDC Herpes STI Treatment Guidelines. Use those sources and a clinician for current care decisions.

Community option

Peer conversations can help with disclosure and dating questions after you have medical guidance. The optional community link below is for peer support, not medical care.