Learn more about genital herpes discharge, other symptoms of genital herpes, outbreak triggers, when to see a healthcare provider, and treatment options.
Genital Herpes Discharge
Genital herpes does not cause symptoms in everyone with the infection. Some people with a vagina may develop symptoms, including discharge.
Vaginal Genital Herpes Discharge
Many people with genital herpes do not have symptoms or have symptoms that are barely noticeable. Some people who have genital herpes may get an unusual vaginal discharge.
Vaginal discharge can be healthy and normal. It serves an important function in cleaning the vagina and helping prevent infections from entering the body.
A healthy vaginal discharge can be:
Elastic-like in textureStickyThinThickGooey in textureWhiteOff-whiteClear
Vaginal discharge can also be a sign of a health problem, like an STI. Vaginal discharge may not be normal if it:
Smells badChanges odorChanges colorIs greenIs grayishResembles pusLooks foamyLooks like cottage cheese
Genital herpes may cause an unusual vaginal discharge that’s smelly.
Genital Herpes Discharge From the Penis
Discharge from the penis is unlikely if a person has genital herpes. Other STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause penile discharge. For example, with gonorrhea, penile discharge can be thick and yellow, In chlamydia, discharge from the penis can be milky in color.
Other Genital Herpes Symptoms
People of any sex can have genital herpes and have no symptoms. Sometimes, symptoms develop but are so mild they go unnoticed. They can also be easily mistaken for other conditions.
In people of any sex, symptoms of genital herpes can include:
Itching in the genitalsPain in the genital areaSores and blistersDifficulty urinatingBurning sensation when urinatingSwollen or sore glands in the pelvis, under the arms, and in the throatHeadacheFeverFeeling unwellFlu-like symptoms
Sores from genital herpes may appear on the:
VulvaVaginaCervixScrotumPenisAnusThighButtocks
When to See a Healthcare Provider
If you have symptoms that could be from genital herpes or another STI, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. The only way to confirm if you have genital herpes is through a physical examination and testing. This can be done by a healthcare provider at a number of locations including:
There are a number of things that can trigger a genital herpes outbreak, including:
Having a weakened immune system (for example, when receiving chemotherapy)MenstruationStressBeing generally unwellHaving surgery on the genital areaExposure to ultraviolet (UV) light (e. g. , from the sun or tanning beds)AlcoholSmokingFriction in the genital area from sex or tight clothing
A provider’s officeA Planned Parenthood health facilityA community health clinicYour local health department
A test for herpes may not come up in conversation or as part of a regular check-up. For this reason, it is important to be upfront and honest with your healthcare provider about any symptoms you have.
If you see a provider, they may recommend testing for herpes. You can be tested for genital herpes through:
A physical exam to look for sores, rashes, or signs of genital herpesA swab test (a sample of fluid is taken from any sores and sent for testing)A blood test to look for herpes antibodies (however, this is only recommended if symptoms are present)
Treatment
There is no cure for genital herpes. Some treatment options are available to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
Antiviral medications can help shorten an outbreak of herpes and prevent future outbreaks. Taken daily, they may also help reduce the risk of transmitting the herpes virus to a sexual partner.
There are some ways to manage genital herpes symptoms, such as:
Wrapping an ice pack and applying it to sore areasApplying vaseline to reduce pain when urinatingKeeping areas with sores cleanUsing plain water or salt water to wash blistersWashing your hands before applying any creams, ointments, or gels to the affected areaPouring water on the genital area while urinating to ease painHaving a warm bathKeeping the genitals dryWearing loose clothing that is softTaking pain relievers, if needed
Summary
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause a variety of symptoms, but some people do not have symptoms. You may develop sores, flu-like symptoms, and vaginal discharge. A discharge from the penis is unlikely if you have genital herpes, but can occur with other STIs.
Take pain relieving medication if you need to and use other strategies to manage your symptoms (for example, avoid wearing synthetic or nylon underwear—cotton underwear is best). You should also avoid sex during symptomatic outbreaks.
Outbreaks of genital herpes can be triggered by stress, illness, smoking, or alcohol, among other things. There is no cure for genital herpes, but treatment is available to help you manage the condition and avoid spreading it to others.
A Word From Verywell
If you have symptoms you think could be from genital herpes or another STI, talk to your healthcare provider. They can do tests to find out for sure what is causing your symptoms and make sure you get the right treatment.
STIsBacterial infectionsYeast infections
A discharge from the penis can also indicate a problem. A discharge that is yellow or green can be caused by STIs or inflammation of the urethra (urethritis).
