Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, yet many men do not realize they have it because symptoms can be mild or completely absent. Understanding how it works helps remove fear and encourages better sexual health decisions.
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV. Once the virus enters the body, it stays there for life, although symptoms may appear only occasionally. There are two types of herpes viruses. HSV-1 is usually linked to oral herpes or cold sores but can also infect the genitals through oral sex. HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes and is usually spread through sexual contact.
Many people are surprised by how common genital herpes actually is. Public health data shows that about 8% of men between the ages of 14 and 49 in the United States have HSV-2. Overall, about one in 6 people in this age group has genital herpes caused by either HSV-1 or HSV-2. Many of these individuals do not know they are infected because symptoms are often mild or unnoticed.
When symptoms do appear, they may include tingling, itching, or burning in the genital area, followed by small bumps that can turn into blisters and open sores. These sores may appear on the penis, scrotum, anus, thighs, or buttocks. Some men may also experience swollen lymph nodes, fever, headaches, or pain during urination. The first outbreak is usually the most noticeable, while later outbreaks tend to be milder and shorter.