An outbreak of genital herpes is generally never a pleasant thing, but if you have contracted this sexually transmitted disease then it's important that you can recognize the five main stages involved and how exactly you should be treating them.

Stage 1: The very first stage is often the most pain free and the most subtle of all five. Some people don't even notice this stage as it is characterized by a little swelling and redness of the genital area (either the vulva or the frenulum depending on whether a male or female is affected). Itchiness and sensitivity are also common at this stage and if you take preventative medication for outbreaks you should certainly take a dose at this stage. Topical cream is also best applied now to make any blisters less painful and likely to scar.

Stage 2: The second stage of genital herpes is characterized by small blisters. Like any other blister they're filled with fluid, but this fluid can be clear, appear white or red. They may burst on their own but should never be burst intentionally. These are likely to be very painful and itchy but you should avoid itching at all costs. Instead, apply topical ointment prescribed by your doctor.

Stage 3: This stage is probably the most painful; when the blisters burst to reveal sore, open skin. There may just be one large sore, or groups of smaller ones but in any case you should avoid touching them apart from to apply topical cream and wash them gently with clean, warm water.

Stage 4: Eventually these sores (that may look just like cuts) will heal and form scabs. The golden rule of herpes is to never, ever pick the scabs as they are there to protect the skin underneath and help it heal properly. If you do pick them you'll cause scar tissue to grow, which not only looks unsightly once the outbreak has gone, but it makes future outbreaks more painful.

Stage 5: Once the scarred areas have finished protecting the growing skin underneath they will begin to fall off and you will see evidence of the outbreak having finished. At this stage you no longer need to use your topical cream and can enjoy being pain and itch-free. Do wait until all the scabs have gone before any sexual contact, or you put your partner at risk of catching the disease.

While an outbreak of herpes has five different stages, luckily each one of these usually doesn't last very long. In addition each one can always be helped along with topical creams and anti viral medications, prescribed by your personal doctor. If you experience an outbreak that seems particularly bad then remember that not all types of herpes medication work for everyone. The best thing to do in this situation is go back and see your doctor who may try you on a different combination of medications. It's important that you work with your doctor to find the right type of medication for the condition as it will make future outbreaks and the duration of each of the stages of herpes lessen considerably.

Stan Tian

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