When to worry about vulval pain with genital herpes

Genital herpes can cause painful blisters or shallow sores on the vulva and nearby skin. Burning, tingling, pain when urine touches sores, and tender groin glands may accompany an outbreak. A first episode can feel more extensive than later episodes. Pain can also come from another infection or skin problem, so an unfamiliar pattern, persistent sore, or unusual discharge merits an examination.

Arrange medical advice early in an outbreak because antiviral treatment may be considered, particularly during a first episode. Keep sores clean and dry, wash hands after touching the area, wear loose clothing, and avoid sex while sores or warning symptoms are present. Do not pick blisters. Ask a clinician or pharmacist about pain relief and ways to reduce stinging during urination.

Seek prompt care for pain that is severe or rapidly worsening, sores spreading beyond the usual area, fever, marked difficulty urinating, or inability to pass urine. Also arrange review if sores are not healing, you are pregnant, you have a weakened immune system, or the symptoms do not resemble your diagnosed outbreaks. Urgent help is needed if you cannot urinate or feel seriously unwell.

Ask whether this is an outbreak, whether testing for other infections is needed, when antiviral treatment should start, how to manage urine-related stinging, how to lower transmission risk, and when sexual activity can safely resume.