What does vulval pain feel like with genital herpes?

Genital herpes can cause groups of small blisters that break into shallow, sore areas on the vulva or nearby skin. Pain may begin as tingling, itching, or burning before the skin changes are visible. Urinating can sting when urine touches an open sore, and friction from underwear or sex may intensify tenderness. Some people have mild symptoms or none. Other infections and skin conditions can cause similar soreness, so a fresh lesion is best assessed by a clinician, who can explain testing and treatment.

Keep the area clean and dry, wear loose underwear, and avoid sex while sores or pain are present. Do not pick blisters or apply unapproved products. Arrange prompt sexual health or medical care, because antiviral treatment may be considered early in an outbreak. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Seek prompt help for severe pain, inability to pass urine, spreading sores, fever, marked illness, eye symptoms, or a first suspected outbreak during pregnancy. Urgent advice is also needed if pain is rapidly worsening or you cannot keep fluids down.

Ask whether the sores should be swabbed, whether antiviral treatment is suitable, and how to reduce transmission to partners. Ask what to do during future outbreaks and how pregnancy would change the plan.