Genital Herpes in Men: How to Recognise It?

Genital herpes is a very common sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. The virus is highly contagious and is transmitted through direct contact during sexual intercourse. It is most commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). However, HSV-1, which is usually responsible for facial herpes, can also cause genital herpes in men, particularly during oral-genital contact.

When the virus infects the genital area, it causes a burning sensation followed by the appearance of small blisters clustered together on the penis. It can also spread to the testicles, upper thighs, and anal region. They eventually burst, leaving behind red, painful sores.

Genital herpes is a recurrent infection. Once the virus has entered the body for the first time, it remains present for life and can reactivate at any time. These reactivations cause herpes outbreaks, which occur with varying frequency depending on the individual and are influenced by various factors. The virus can sometimes remain dormant for many years before causing a new infection. Knowing the warning signs of a herpes outbreak helps you act quickly and relieve symptoms.

Genital herpes is transmitted exclusively through sexual contact. It can spread through direct contact with herpes lesions on the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person. It is therefore possible to contract the virus during sexual intercourse, with or without penetration. Cold sores can also be a cause of genital herpes. Consequently, when a person has oral herpes, the virus can be passed on to their partner during cunnilingus, fellatio, or anilingus. Genital herpes can also be transmitted to men through contact with the genital secretions of a person carrying the virus who shows no symptoms. Indeed, the risk of transmission is present even when there is no active herpes outbreak.

During primary infection, some men experience no symptoms at all, which makes the virus all the more insidious. Others, by contrast, may develop a severe outbreak of herpetic lesions, sometimes accompanied by a fever and flu-like symptoms. However, whether symptoms are present or not, the virus remains dormant in the body and can lead to recurrent outbreaks. Outbreaks mainly occur when the immune system weakens and can no longer keep the virus under control. This weakening can have many causes, such as a period of stress or fatigue, an infection, or an unbalanced diet.

During the initial herpes infection, symptoms may be absent or, conversely, very severe. Subsequent outbreaks are generally less severe and shorter in duration. The signs that help identify genital herpes in men are:

• A Burning Sensation: Even before the lesions appear, you may experience a tingling, itching, or burning sensation on the penis. This unpleasant and painful sensation signals an imminent outbreak

• Herpes Lesions: Blisters then appear on the penis. They are clustered together, and the surrounding skin is red. After a few days, the blisters burst and turn into red, painful sores

• Scab Formation: The lesions eventually dry out, and scabs form until they have completely healed

• Swollen Lymph Nodes: The lymph nodes in the groin are sometimes swollen and tender. This indicates significant activity of the immune system in response to the viral infection

• Flu-Like Symptoms: During the first infection, you may experience fever, aching muscles, headaches and generalised fatigue, similar to flu

• A Burning Sensation When Urinating: Lesions at the tip of the glans may cause a burning sensation when urinating

Any suspicious lesions on the genitals require a medical consultation. Indeed, only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. Through a clinical examination, they can determine the cause of the rash. A simple visual examination is usually enough to recognise genital herpes, as herpes lesions are highly characteristic, with multiple small blisters. If there is any doubt, they may prescribe a blood test or a local swab sample for analysis in a medical laboratory to confirm the presence of the virus. The standard treatment for genital herpes involves applying an antiviral cream to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.

At the same time, you should take a few precautions to prevent passing the virus on to your partner(s):

• Avoid all sexual intercourse, even with protection, until the sores have completely healed

• Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the infected area

• Clean the sores with lukewarm water and mild soap every day to prevent a secondary bacterial infection. Use a clean towel and put it straight into the laundry

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can help prevent outbreaks of genital herpes:

1. Protect Yourself During Sex: Always use a condom to reduce the risk of infection, especially if you have multiple partners or are in new relationships. Also avoid oral sex if your partner has a cold sore

2. Eat a Diet Rich in Lysine: Lysine is an amino acid that appears to inhibit the replication of the herpes virus. It is found in particular in fish, white meat, eggs, and certain plant-based foods, such as lentils, quinoa, and soya. Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can help to reduce the frequency of outbreaks

3. Make Sure You Get Enough Rest: Lack of sleep and overexertion weaken your immune system, which increases the risk of recurrence. Make sure you get enough sleep so that you don’t feel tired when you wake up, and take breaks when your body tells you it needs rest

4. Boost Your Immune System: If you’re experiencing fatigue despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, certain dietary supplements, such as those containing Vitamin C or adaptogenic herbs, may help support your overall well-being

If you experience itching, irritation, or notice sores on your penis, seek advice from a healthcare professional before applying anything. This area is extremely sensitive and an unsuitable product could make the symptoms worse.

Supporting the immune system involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, getting enough restful sleep and engaging in regular physical activity. Some people also choose to take dietary supplements, particularly during seasonal changes. Certain active ingredients are particularly recommended for boosting the body’s natural defences. Herbs such as echinacea, thyme and ginger are also used in traditional herbal practices, although evidence for their effects varies.

Amandine is a writer specialising in natural health. Passionate about alternative medicine, she is currently training to become a naturopath. Through her articles, she shares her knowledge in an accessible way, helping readers explore simple ways to bring more balance and wellbeing into their everyday lives.