What Are The Symptoms Of Herpes?

Posted on Mon, 3 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 3 Nov 2014 Answered on

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Can a herpes blister appear as a purple bump and the top of the opening of the labia majora? This area is sometimes itchy and has some pain, but it's not constant. I've never seen it before. I used to shave and maybe it's because of that? It does not look fluid filled either. I have been tested negative for herpes, however I am still concerned.

Answered by Dr. Bharatesh Devendra Basti (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
may be folliculitis .please send details and photo

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for query.I am Dr Bharatesh D Basti answering your query.
It is unlikely to be herpes if single lesion .
Please send details of duration , partner history if any, intercourse history, symptoms, any treatment taken or any other diseases etc
Please send clear photos of the lesion.
With the description given it may be folliculitis or ingrowing hair.
You do not trim hairs to short.
Clean area with warm water and apply topical antibiotics for now
You can get back for any clarification with clear photos and details.
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh Basti
Dermatologist and venereologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Bharatesh Devendra Basti (13 minutes later)

There appears to be two purple bumps at the top of the photo by my finger. I do have folliculitis and suffer from eczema from time to time. You may have to zoom in to see them.You will aslo notice that I have a lot of plugged subaceous glands on my vulva area as well and fordyce spots. I also have a white discharge without odour, but I am 10 days away from my expected period.

Answered by Dr. Bharatesh Devendra Basti (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
due to abrasion or injury.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for follow up query.
I have gone through the photos and details.
I could see many lesions suggesting folliculitis.
The purple lesion may be due to abrasion or friction or due to injury. It will subside by itself.you need not worry.
See that you do not trim hair too short.
Clean area with warm water twice daily.
I would have advised topical antibiotic like silverex or mupirocin.
Minor amount of white discharge without odor or symptoms is normal .
Maintain genital hygiene.
You can get back for any clarification else please close the discussion and rate.
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh Basti

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju