Aa
HSV2 from protected oral and vagina sex with CSW?
Hello, I’ve read many of your posts and wonder if you can provide some thoughts on my situation.
On 5Feb I had protected oral and very brief vaginal sex with female CSW from Mexico. The condom did not break.
Seven days after had lymph node on lower left ear swell up to a pea size (noticeable). On day 8 I started having tingling sensations on my penis with other associated minor pains that almost felt like pins or bites on inner thighs. Out of precaution and my researching the internet, I started taking Valacyovir 1,000/twice a day. Had these meds from a previous oral hsv1…prescribed. On the 11th day, I woke up with night sweats, never had this before; followed by multiple red dots on penis head. Red rash/hives on both lower sides of back and buttocks. Many hives come and go all day including a few raised red rash/hive with bumps on arms. Saw my doctor who said he can’t swab anything since it appears the meds were doing the job of suppressing HSV2. I’m very worried about this being HSV2 based on the symptoms but also wondering how I could’ve been so “unlucky” to get it when using a condom. Trying to decide if disclosing this one time dumb decision is worth the burden for my wife but don’t want to if I’m not HSV2 infected. I will NEVER do this again. So much anxiety. Also, I do have one hpv wart on my penis shaft but it was under the condom.
On 5Feb I had protected oral and very brief vaginal sex with female CSW from Mexico. The condom did not break.
Seven days after had lymph node on lower left ear swell up to a pea size (noticeable). On day 8 I started having tingling sensations on my penis with other associated minor pains that almost felt like pins or bites on inner thighs. Out of precaution and my researching the internet, I started taking Valacyovir 1,000/twice a day. Had these meds from a previous oral hsv1…prescribed. On the 11th day, I woke up with night sweats, never had this before; followed by multiple red dots on penis head. Red rash/hives on both lower sides of back and buttocks. Many hives come and go all day including a few raised red rash/hive with bumps on arms. Saw my doctor who said he can’t swab anything since it appears the meds were doing the job of suppressing HSV2. I’m very worried about this being HSV2 based on the symptoms but also wondering how I could’ve been so “unlucky” to get it when using a condom. Trying to decide if disclosing this one time dumb decision is worth the burden for my wife but don’t want to if I’m not HSV2 infected. I will NEVER do this again. So much anxiety. Also, I do have one hpv wart on my penis shaft but it was under the condom.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Night sweats are not a symptom of herpes, but they are of Omicron - did you test for that? Mine were really bad when I had it.
Tingling and pins and needles feelings are almost always anxiety, not STDs. I don't know what is causing the hives - maybe anxiety, maybe something you are eating or using on your body.
Stop taking the Valtrex - you don't need it. If this is herpes (it's not) it's masking your symptoms, and you are more likely taking medication you don't need.
The chances that you'd get herpes from a one time, totally protected encounter is very, very slim.
Are you treating the wart?
Please talk to your doctor about your anxiety if this is not new for you.
Tingling and pins and needles feelings are almost always anxiety, not STDs. I don't know what is causing the hives - maybe anxiety, maybe something you are eating or using on your body.
Stop taking the Valtrex - you don't need it. If this is herpes (it's not) it's masking your symptoms, and you are more likely taking medication you don't need.
The chances that you'd get herpes from a one time, totally protected encounter is very, very slim.
Are you treating the wart?
Please talk to your doctor about your anxiety if this is not new for you.
50 Comments
Hi AuntieJessie…thank you for the quick reply!
I had omicron last month so good to go there. Very minor symptoms from it.
As for night sweats, it only happened once. The night before I had multiple red sore/spots on penis head. That would’ve been only 36-48 hours after taking valtrex. I’ve never had spots like that show up…they didn’t appear to be blisters. And to clarify, I showed the doc a picture and he said, it “could” be HSV but not definitive. I’ve had multiple, very small bumps appear in the genital region, of which, I feel them and then they fade away. All this is new and wondering if they are fading away quickly because of the medicine? If this was HSV2, wouldn’t it make sense for the meds to “mask” or minimize the symptoms?
As for the wart…yes. Doc gave me ointment initially which was minimally effective. I saw a dermatologist who then treated it and it’s definitely decreased in size since.
As for anxiety…I’ve never had this much angst and anxiety in my life that I can remember. Especially since this was a terrible, terrible decision. :(
I belive I’ve read, the earliest for HSV2 testing would be three weeks. If so, that might be some pease of mind.
I had omicron last month so good to go there. Very minor symptoms from it.
As for night sweats, it only happened once. The night before I had multiple red sore/spots on penis head. That would’ve been only 36-48 hours after taking valtrex. I’ve never had spots like that show up…they didn’t appear to be blisters. And to clarify, I showed the doc a picture and he said, it “could” be HSV but not definitive. I’ve had multiple, very small bumps appear in the genital region, of which, I feel them and then they fade away. All this is new and wondering if they are fading away quickly because of the medicine? If this was HSV2, wouldn’t it make sense for the meds to “mask” or minimize the symptoms?
As for the wart…yes. Doc gave me ointment initially which was minimally effective. I saw a dermatologist who then treated it and it’s definitely decreased in size since.
As for anxiety…I’ve never had this much angst and anxiety in my life that I can remember. Especially since this was a terrible, terrible decision. :(
I belive I’ve read, the earliest for HSV2 testing would be three weeks. If so, that might be some pease of mind.
Also had pretty bad diarrhea starting day 10 after exposure. And spoke with a pharmacist about side effects from Valacyovir meds and was told it shouldn’t cause diarrhea. I took Imodium AD twice since it was so bad.
Jus having a hard time believing it’s not HSV2 based on timeline from exposure and symptoms that appeared to be prodrome followed by small red sores on penis head.
I do hope you’re correct and I’m over worrying.
Jus having a hard time believing it’s not HSV2 based on timeline from exposure and symptoms that appeared to be prodrome followed by small red sores on penis head.
I do hope you’re correct and I’m over worrying.
One last comment…I thought I read a post on here where someone said IF you got HSV2 while using a condom, the sore(s) would show up on the penis head. I don’t understand the reason but I also can’ find the reference/post. Someone was quoting Dr H.
Well, I can't reference that post without seeing it, but it was probably something about sores appearing at the point of infection. Some infections, like syphilis, only appear at the site of infection, while herpes sores can appear anywhere - they often appear at the site of infection, but don't have to. If you wore a condom, you could still get sores on the head of your penis. The shaft is the most common spot, but there's a wide variety for men.
If you started taking Valtrex right away, in theory, you could be preventing your body from making antibodies. It's not a hard and fast rule - I was on Valtrex from day 1, and tested positive at about 2.5 weeks - shocked my doctor and me - but it can in some people.
If you want to know if the red bumps are herpes, stop taking the Valtrex. If they still fade away, and don't blister, it's not.
Diarrhea is also not a symptom of herpes. That could be from Omicron, from anxiety, something you ate, etc.
Again, the chances of you getting infected from a one-time protected encounter are very, very slim. Even if you were in a long-term relationship with someone with hsv2, the chances of you getting infected over the course of a year if all you did was avoid sex during outbreaks are 4% a year. If you used condoms, it is 2% a year.
If you started taking Valtrex right away, in theory, you could be preventing your body from making antibodies. It's not a hard and fast rule - I was on Valtrex from day 1, and tested positive at about 2.5 weeks - shocked my doctor and me - but it can in some people.
If you want to know if the red bumps are herpes, stop taking the Valtrex. If they still fade away, and don't blister, it's not.
Diarrhea is also not a symptom of herpes. That could be from Omicron, from anxiety, something you ate, etc.
Again, the chances of you getting infected from a one-time protected encounter are very, very slim. Even if you were in a long-term relationship with someone with hsv2, the chances of you getting infected over the course of a year if all you did was avoid sex during outbreaks are 4% a year. If you used condoms, it is 2% a year.
Thank you for the follow up. So I stopped taking the meds yesterday based on your recommendation (9 days total). And just to clarify, the red bumps on penis head went away after 2-3 days. So not sure if they’ll come back now that I’ve stopped the meds.
To your point about sores showing up anywhere on males, I did have some sores appear in the upper groin area, just below belly button, and some one both sides of inner groin/thigh. But each time, they did not have fluids and appeared to come and go very quickly. So, I’m not sure if the meds contributed to that quick “repair” process or not. And this is certainly something new for me…never had sores appear and disappear like that. I would feel them first, then look and they would already be “dried” up or almost gone. Perhaps Valtrex worked better than expected?
To your point about sores showing up anywhere on males, I did have some sores appear in the upper groin area, just below belly button, and some one both sides of inner groin/thigh. But each time, they did not have fluids and appeared to come and go very quickly. So, I’m not sure if the meds contributed to that quick “repair” process or not. And this is certainly something new for me…never had sores appear and disappear like that. I would feel them first, then look and they would already be “dried” up or almost gone. Perhaps Valtrex worked better than expected?
I’m certainly freaking out because of my dumb decision. I do have a picture of the bumps on penis head but not sure if that is appropriate or shareable on this forum?
Not to get into the morals too much but I’m trying to balance disclosing this awful decision with my spouse or confirming it’s not indeed herpes. At the same time, I’ve read taking the meds can not only slow antibodies which will then prevent proper results on IGG test but not pass this on to my spouse. I’m the only one to blame.
Not to get into the morals too much but I’m trying to balance disclosing this awful decision with my spouse or confirming it’s not indeed herpes. At the same time, I’ve read taking the meds can not only slow antibodies which will then prevent proper results on IGG test but not pass this on to my spouse. I’m the only one to blame.
"I did have some sores appear in the upper groin area, just below belly button" - were they in the pubic bone/pubic hair area? If they were on your stomach/lower abdomen, that's not herpes.
Having no fluid and disappearing so quickly doesn't sound like herpes. It sounds like maybe you have folliculitis, or maybe an allergic reaction to something.
Generally speaking, I'm not in favor of sharing every infidelity with your partner. If a confirmed STD is involved, then absolutely, yes. If not, we generally do that to make ourselves feel better - we need to relieve ourselves of our burden, and in turn, place it all on our partners who've done nothing.
You can get relief by talking to a counselor - that benefits you more in the long run and protects your partner and any children you may have. My opinion, which is worth exactly as much as you've paid for it, is to not make this their burden.
The chances of this being herpes is very, very slim. At least wait a week and see what happens before making any decisions.
Having no fluid and disappearing so quickly doesn't sound like herpes. It sounds like maybe you have folliculitis, or maybe an allergic reaction to something.
Generally speaking, I'm not in favor of sharing every infidelity with your partner. If a confirmed STD is involved, then absolutely, yes. If not, we generally do that to make ourselves feel better - we need to relieve ourselves of our burden, and in turn, place it all on our partners who've done nothing.
You can get relief by talking to a counselor - that benefits you more in the long run and protects your partner and any children you may have. My opinion, which is worth exactly as much as you've paid for it, is to not make this their burden.
The chances of this being herpes is very, very slim. At least wait a week and see what happens before making any decisions.
Thank you AuntieJessie….the sores were right at the groin area just below normal underwear line. I would say there were a few lower but definitely a few inside the inner thigh next to groin.
Your advice is exactly what my best friend has told me to do. I will now wait and see if any further issues arise without medication. I’ll also take a deep breath and wait sometime to have a proper IGG test done.
We do have a counselor if this situation changes for the worst case. Thank you so much for your responses. Can’t say thank you enough!
Your advice is exactly what my best friend has told me to do. I will now wait and see if any further issues arise without medication. I’ll also take a deep breath and wait sometime to have a proper IGG test done.
We do have a counselor if this situation changes for the worst case. Thank you so much for your responses. Can’t say thank you enough!
Also - you traveled, so perhaps you used a soap or something that caused a reaction? Did you happen to bring the hotel soap home with you and are continuing to use it?
Hotel soaps are usually filled with scents, and while they often claim to be "natural", even scented stuff can cause reactions, especially in sensitive areas like the groin.
Or maybe bed bugs?
Hang in there, and keep me posted. :)
Hotel soaps are usually filled with scents, and while they often claim to be "natural", even scented stuff can cause reactions, especially in sensitive areas like the groin.
Or maybe bed bugs?
Hang in there, and keep me posted. :)
I travel a lot…don’t believe this is soap related. Although, I did spent two days at a water park with my kids and the red bumps on penis head was right after that visit. Trying to find alternative possibilities but just doesn’t seem right since I indeed had a numbness/tingling feeling preceding the appears of a cluster of red bumps on penis head which fell into the initial infection period window of 12 days. :/
I also considered bed bugs or scabies since the other sores on inner groin/sides and front groin area almost felt like a bite at times. Just not seeing anything crawling around or continued “bite” feeling.
Still doesn’t explain the red rashes on both sides of lower back AND outside thighs/buttocks. They appear almost flaky and I’m not sure if that would match with initial HSV OB symptoms. Thought I read this could happen for initial OB (considering was taking Valtrex from very beginning)? It’s difficult to find pictures of HSV skin post OB for comparison online. I’m so distressed over a one-time terrible decision which could potentially alter my life including so many around me. But I digress since this is all my own doing.
I will post updates with any progress…
I also considered bed bugs or scabies since the other sores on inner groin/sides and front groin area almost felt like a bite at times. Just not seeing anything crawling around or continued “bite” feeling.
Still doesn’t explain the red rashes on both sides of lower back AND outside thighs/buttocks. They appear almost flaky and I’m not sure if that would match with initial HSV OB symptoms. Thought I read this could happen for initial OB (considering was taking Valtrex from very beginning)? It’s difficult to find pictures of HSV skin post OB for comparison online. I’m so distressed over a one-time terrible decision which could potentially alter my life including so many around me. But I digress since this is all my own doing.
I will post updates with any progress…
If it were the water park, I'd imagine your kids would have something, and it would probably be more widespread on you.
Flaky often indicates a fungal infection, or eczema or some other form of dermatitis. I'll be interested to see how it progresses off the Valtrex. If it gets worse, I'm sure you're going to assume it's herpes, but that could be coincidence.
If you travel a lot, is it plausible to make an appt with a dermatologist? Give it the weekend, and go from there.
Hang in there.
Flaky often indicates a fungal infection, or eczema or some other form of dermatitis. I'll be interested to see how it progresses off the Valtrex. If it gets worse, I'm sure you're going to assume it's herpes, but that could be coincidence.
If you travel a lot, is it plausible to make an appt with a dermatologist? Give it the weekend, and go from there.
Hang in there.
Update since off Valtrex for 7 days. Had a terrible day on Saturday which felt like continuous tingling with what, at times, seemed to show some “hive like” shapes on penis head. Not perfect shapes and no blisters. So not sure if it’s the stress/anxiety.
Today, 22 days since event, I had another full STD panel done; understanding that antibodies may not show this early.
I’ve got a dermatologist appointment later this week. Not feeling very hopeful but looking for more definitive answers before going blowing up my entire life and relationships. :/
Today, 22 days since event, I had another full STD panel done; understanding that antibodies may not show this early.
I’ve got a dermatologist appointment later this week. Not feeling very hopeful but looking for more definitive answers before going blowing up my entire life and relationships. :/
Tingling is almost always anxiety and a hyperfocus on the area.
Did you take pics of the hive shapes? How long did they last? If they are gone already, it's hot herpes. I'm glad you have the derm appt. :) When do you get the STD results?
Hang in there.
Did you take pics of the hive shapes? How long did they last? If they are gone already, it's hot herpes. I'm glad you have the derm appt. :) When do you get the STD results?
Hang in there.
Hi Auntiejessi…partial results just posted today (10 panel test, including HIV RNA).
Chlamydia/Gonorrhea - pending - I expect negative since I took a test this test previously at 9-10 days
HIV RNA - awaiting results…this test takes longer of course
HSV1 - positive, which I already knew
Everything else negative! :)
As for the hives…They come and go and have irregular shapes. Not quite oval…definitely not perfect circle. I didn’t take pics, because I’m not sure who I would show them to. :/
So my biggest concern at this point is what caused the multitude of tiny red raised bumps around tip of penis. And the sharp but brief pain I’d get on inner thighs that almost felt like a bug bite or prick. Still wondering if the Valtrex sufficiently suppressed what could’ve been an OB?
Of course, I’m concerned that I tested too early for HSV2 since it’s day 22/23 since my terrible decision.
THANK YOU for the follow-up. It really does help a troubling mind come to ease for just a few minutes. :) More info to follow after I see the dermatologist.
Chlamydia/Gonorrhea - pending - I expect negative since I took a test this test previously at 9-10 days
HIV RNA - awaiting results…this test takes longer of course
HSV1 - positive, which I already knew
Everything else negative! :)
As for the hives…They come and go and have irregular shapes. Not quite oval…definitely not perfect circle. I didn’t take pics, because I’m not sure who I would show them to. :/
So my biggest concern at this point is what caused the multitude of tiny red raised bumps around tip of penis. And the sharp but brief pain I’d get on inner thighs that almost felt like a bug bite or prick. Still wondering if the Valtrex sufficiently suppressed what could’ve been an OB?
Of course, I’m concerned that I tested too early for HSV2 since it’s day 22/23 since my terrible decision.
THANK YOU for the follow-up. It really does help a troubling mind come to ease for just a few minutes. :) More info to follow after I see the dermatologist.
You can expect your HIV to be negative since you used a condom. I wouldn't worry about that at all.
If you get the hives - for lack of any other name - again, or the red dots, take a couple of pics so you can show the derm, in case they aren't there when you see him/her.
The red dots could be psoriasis, a fungal infection, balanitis, eczema, or a number of other things. It's not likely to be an STD.
It's hard to say what the Valtrex did, honestly. You used a condom, so your chances of getting hsv2 are very low.
Hang in there and thanks for the update!
If you get the hives - for lack of any other name - again, or the red dots, take a couple of pics so you can show the derm, in case they aren't there when you see him/her.
The red dots could be psoriasis, a fungal infection, balanitis, eczema, or a number of other things. It's not likely to be an STD.
It's hard to say what the Valtrex did, honestly. You used a condom, so your chances of getting hsv2 are very low.
Hang in there and thanks for the update!
Quick update…my STD test all came back negative.
I saw the dermatologist who looked everything over and said he can’t see anything. Of course, no bumps or sores currently so makes it a bit challenging. His opinion seemed to match yours…that it was a very low risk encounter but not zero risk. Although he couldn’t explain why I got tiny red bumps on penis head.
He did cut off the one genital wart and said he would send for biopsy; stated they can test it for HSV2 as well. That was a bit painful but worth removing I suspect.
So my “final” worry is when to take the HSV2 antibody test that would be considered conclusive. Online recommendations range from 3, 6 and 12 weeks depending on the site.
I saw the dermatologist who looked everything over and said he can’t see anything. Of course, no bumps or sores currently so makes it a bit challenging. His opinion seemed to match yours…that it was a very low risk encounter but not zero risk. Although he couldn’t explain why I got tiny red bumps on penis head.
He did cut off the one genital wart and said he would send for biopsy; stated they can test it for HSV2 as well. That was a bit painful but worth removing I suspect.
So my “final” worry is when to take the HSV2 antibody test that would be considered conclusive. Online recommendations range from 3, 6 and 12 weeks depending on the site.
Good, I'm glad they are going to biopsy it. Getting actual results will be worth whatever discomfort it caused.
For the hsv2 testing -
3 weeks would be for an IgM test, and don't do that test. It's wrong at least as often as it is right, and may be wrong at least as much as 80-90% of the time.
It takes 2 weeks minimum to develop hsv2 IgG antibodies. 70% will by 6 weeks, which is why some say to test at 6 weeks, especially with no symptoms and/or no known exposure.
It's conclusive at 12 weeks.
It's up to you when to test, but I will caution you not to test too often. There are false positives on the hsv2 IgG, and the more you test, the more likely you are to get one. The test gives you an index value, and if your index value is between 1.10 and 3.5, there is a really good chance it's a false positive.
For the hsv2 testing -
3 weeks would be for an IgM test, and don't do that test. It's wrong at least as often as it is right, and may be wrong at least as much as 80-90% of the time.
It takes 2 weeks minimum to develop hsv2 IgG antibodies. 70% will by 6 weeks, which is why some say to test at 6 weeks, especially with no symptoms and/or no known exposure.
It's conclusive at 12 weeks.
It's up to you when to test, but I will caution you not to test too often. There are false positives on the hsv2 IgG, and the more you test, the more likely you are to get one. The test gives you an index value, and if your index value is between 1.10 and 3.5, there is a really good chance it's a false positive.
Thank you Auntiejessi…the test was IGG. I’ll wait until six or seven weeks and then see about retesting. If no symptoms, perhaps I’ll wait until the full 12 weeks to have a better piece of mind.
Has there ever been any consensus as to whether valtrex/valacyclovir can “slow” antibody production thus extending the acceptable 12 week norm? As you know, I took it for 8 days. Hoping that won’t change or extend the testing conclusive timeframe.
Has there ever been any consensus as to whether valtrex/valacyclovir can “slow” antibody production thus extending the acceptable 12 week norm? As you know, I took it for 8 days. Hoping that won’t change or extend the testing conclusive timeframe.
It can if you don't stop it. You stopped it, so you should be fine.
I was on valtrex from the first day of symptoms, though, which I got on day 2 or 3, and tested positive at 2.5 weeks. Everyone is different.
I was on valtrex from the first day of symptoms, though, which I got on day 2 or 3, and tested positive at 2.5 weeks. Everyone is different.
Hello again…today was the first day I felt like “symptoms subsided which started Feb 12th.
My symptoms (coolness/tingling, swollen lymph node behind left ear, multiple tiny red bumps/spots on penis head (24 hours), sharp/biting feeling on inner thighs, red scaly rash/hive on both sides of lower back and outer thighs, random red sores in the genital area that quickly would come and go (this was while taking valacyclovir), one-time night sweat, diarrhea twice and random all over body hives that would come and go quickly. All this from 12Feb to 7Mar…about 22-23 days. All seems suspect of an initial outbreak. :/
Of course, my HSV2 IGG test came back negative at 23 days from potential exposure.
I’m hoping my anxiety and stress is starting to subside and this was all just a “nightmare” of a terrible decision. However, could I have just finished my initial outbreak and it was somewhat minimal??
Is it possible that I didn’t have any blisters but still had an initial outbreak? Seems coincidental that things have now settled down (22 days). Isn’t that a typical initial outbreak duration?
Doc said it “could” be herpes based on a picture. Dermatologist said he doesn’t see anything that indicates herpes even after seeing the picture. He ruled out balantis as well.
My plan is still to take another IGG test at six weeks in hopes of a negative result again. Based on “70% having antibodies” by then, that would certainly give me a more hopeful perspective.
Finally, I’ve read many posts about HSV1 virtually impossible to have a genital outbreak if already showing antibodies, which I have had for years. Is it possible that I was initially infected with HSV1 genitally years ago and the current stress/anxiety caused this “outbreak” genitally? I very rarely get a cold sore and when I do, it’s not painful at all.
Long post…brain is running with ideas/explanations as I await the six week mark.
My symptoms (coolness/tingling, swollen lymph node behind left ear, multiple tiny red bumps/spots on penis head (24 hours), sharp/biting feeling on inner thighs, red scaly rash/hive on both sides of lower back and outer thighs, random red sores in the genital area that quickly would come and go (this was while taking valacyclovir), one-time night sweat, diarrhea twice and random all over body hives that would come and go quickly. All this from 12Feb to 7Mar…about 22-23 days. All seems suspect of an initial outbreak. :/
Of course, my HSV2 IGG test came back negative at 23 days from potential exposure.
I’m hoping my anxiety and stress is starting to subside and this was all just a “nightmare” of a terrible decision. However, could I have just finished my initial outbreak and it was somewhat minimal??
Is it possible that I didn’t have any blisters but still had an initial outbreak? Seems coincidental that things have now settled down (22 days). Isn’t that a typical initial outbreak duration?
Doc said it “could” be herpes based on a picture. Dermatologist said he doesn’t see anything that indicates herpes even after seeing the picture. He ruled out balantis as well.
My plan is still to take another IGG test at six weeks in hopes of a negative result again. Based on “70% having antibodies” by then, that would certainly give me a more hopeful perspective.
Finally, I’ve read many posts about HSV1 virtually impossible to have a genital outbreak if already showing antibodies, which I have had for years. Is it possible that I was initially infected with HSV1 genitally years ago and the current stress/anxiety caused this “outbreak” genitally? I very rarely get a cold sore and when I do, it’s not painful at all.
Long post…brain is running with ideas/explanations as I await the six week mark.
So first - if you've had antibodies for years for hsv1, it is virtually impossible for you to get genital hsv1 unless someone with an active cold sore gives you oral sex. I don't think that happened.
This isn't hsv1. If it was, you would still get blisters or paper cut lesions.
Remember that your risk was really low. You had condom protected oral and brief vaginal sex. The dermatologist - who's opinion I'd trust here - didn't see anything that indicates herpes.
Your symptoms that appeared within 24 hours are not an STD - no STD gives you symptoms within 24 hours. It takes at least 2 days, minimum.
If you had red bumps within 24 hours, that would suggest an irritation or allergic reaction to something - the condom, lube, something else entirely that you used in Mexico. The rest of your symptoms could be side effects from Valtrex and/or stress/anxiety.
I think you need to stop reading stuff on the internet, give yourself a break from all this, and get some counseling, and talk to your doctor about your anxiety. Your anxiety/guilt/stress is focused on an STD being the only answer here, and you are forgetting that your risk was low.
At 6 weeks, take the type specific IgG.
But really, do the counseling and talk to your doctor. And stop reading stuff. :)
This isn't hsv1. If it was, you would still get blisters or paper cut lesions.
Remember that your risk was really low. You had condom protected oral and brief vaginal sex. The dermatologist - who's opinion I'd trust here - didn't see anything that indicates herpes.
Your symptoms that appeared within 24 hours are not an STD - no STD gives you symptoms within 24 hours. It takes at least 2 days, minimum.
If you had red bumps within 24 hours, that would suggest an irritation or allergic reaction to something - the condom, lube, something else entirely that you used in Mexico. The rest of your symptoms could be side effects from Valtrex and/or stress/anxiety.
I think you need to stop reading stuff on the internet, give yourself a break from all this, and get some counseling, and talk to your doctor about your anxiety. Your anxiety/guilt/stress is focused on an STD being the only answer here, and you are forgetting that your risk was low.
At 6 weeks, take the type specific IgG.
But really, do the counseling and talk to your doctor. And stop reading stuff. :)
Hi Auntiejessie…just to clarify, the bumps didn’t show until day 12 and lasted 24 hours. I had been taking valacyclovir for three days at that point.
As for counseling for the anxiety, I agree 200%,
As for counseling for the anxiety, I agree 200%,
The bumps don't sound like herpes to me. Even on Valtrex, they would have lasted longer than 24 hours.
Hang in there.
Hang in there.
Dermatologist called today and said the biopsy of the wart showed only wart and no herpes. I forgot to ask if they can tell which HPV strain since there’s no way to test males. But that’s good news so far. :)
Now I’ll wait to take IGG test at six weeks. I’ll update mid to late March with results.
Fingers crossed and thank you!
Now I’ll wait to take IGG test at six weeks. I’ll update mid to late March with results.
Fingers crossed and thank you!
Call your doctor back and ask them what strain it is. I'd be very surprised if they didn't know that. If they still have the sample, maybe they can type it.
Take care!
Take care!
The dermatologist called me back and said they don’t look/test for the specific HPV strain as it would have to be sent to another lab. Didn’t sound like it was something they would do.
Now I wait for the six week mark to take the IGG HSV2 test. The weird feelings/tingling/cool sensations in the genitives come and go making me hopeful it’s just anxiety and my mind.
I will post the test results mid-late March.
Hope you’re having a good weekend. :)
Now I wait for the six week mark to take the IGG HSV2 test. The weird feelings/tingling/cool sensations in the genitives come and go making me hopeful it’s just anxiety and my mind.
I will post the test results mid-late March.
Hope you’re having a good weekend. :)
Where was the wart they biopsied? Are they considering that to be a genital wart that you can transmit to your wife? That's probably something you should clarify.
I'm sure it's just anxiety causing the sensations. Hang in there. :)
I'm sure it's just anxiety causing the sensations. Hang in there. :)
The wart was removed from my penis shaft(underside). Great question since I assumed it was HPV wart which my doctor said was based on visual diagnosis. Are you suggesting it could be a wart based on a different STD? This wart was why my doctor said I needed to use condoms going forward however my wife’s papsmears have shown negative for HPV.
What else could it be? Can’t imagine syphillis or something worse? :/
What else could it be? Can’t imagine syphillis or something worse? :/
Side note, I continue to get small red spots (sores?) in the groin area that will start to itch and then go away after 24-48 hours. They aren’t blisters but something isn’t right for sure. So frustrating wondering if this is herpes sores. Sometimes it’s one sore and tonight there’s several.
Okay, so you know that the wart on your penis is an STD, and can be transmitted to your wife?
HPV stands for human papilloma virus, and HPV causes all the warts on our body - plantar warts on your feet, warts that appear on your elbow or hand, etc. There are 100s of different strains of it, and there are certain strains that are sexually transmitted that only affect the genitals. Some cause visible warts, and those are the "low risk" kind - not associated with higher risk of cancers. High risk kinds don't usually present with visible warts.
I didn't mean to confuse you - syphilis causes a round, red, painless sore. It's a bacteria, not a virus.
Herpes sores don't go away within 24-48 hrs. That sounds like irritation or an allergic reaction to something you are wearing or using on your skin.
HPV stands for human papilloma virus, and HPV causes all the warts on our body - plantar warts on your feet, warts that appear on your elbow or hand, etc. There are 100s of different strains of it, and there are certain strains that are sexually transmitted that only affect the genitals. Some cause visible warts, and those are the "low risk" kind - not associated with higher risk of cancers. High risk kinds don't usually present with visible warts.
I didn't mean to confuse you - syphilis causes a round, red, painless sore. It's a bacteria, not a virus.
Herpes sores don't go away within 24-48 hrs. That sounds like irritation or an allergic reaction to something you are wearing or using on your skin.
Yes. I’m aware that HPV is an STD and can be spread to my wife. What doesn’t make sense is the wart showed up years later. It’s only then, we started using condoms. And her papsmears show no HPV during testing. Not sure why but we just decided to use condoms due to the wart. Now that the wart has been removed, I’m not sure if it’s best to continue with condom but that’s our plan.
As for the sores, it’s so odd that they show up, sometimes feels like an insect bite, and then go away after 48 hours. :/
Week six for IGG HSV2 test is approaching end of week so I’m pretty anxious and hopeful to get a negative test result.
As for the sores, it’s so odd that they show up, sometimes feels like an insect bite, and then go away after 48 hours. :/
Week six for IGG HSV2 test is approaching end of week so I’m pretty anxious and hopeful to get a negative test result.
So the encounter in Mexico is the first time you've ever gone outside your marriage? Or at least the first time in years? It is odd that it suddenly appeared, but while 90% of people clear it within 2 years, 10% don't.
Nothing that disappears that quickly is an STD. It really sounds like contact dermatitis or an allergy. I'd think even a bug bite would last longer than 48 hours. You said you travel a lot - do you use hotel soap when you do? Maybe get some scent-free, sensitive skin body wash or even soap free cleanser and try that for awhile and see if that helps. That's really the only thing I can think of. Do they coincide with your travel?
Nothing that disappears that quickly is an STD. It really sounds like contact dermatitis or an allergy. I'd think even a bug bite would last longer than 48 hours. You said you travel a lot - do you use hotel soap when you do? Maybe get some scent-free, sensitive skin body wash or even soap free cleanser and try that for awhile and see if that helps. That's really the only thing I can think of. Do they coincide with your travel?
Sadly the recent encounter wasn’t the only time I’ve made this mistake. I did have protected oral sex once before the wart showed up but everything I’ve read said it would be too soon for an HPV wart to show within a few days of an encounter/exposure. Maybe that’s incorrect and that encounter is where I was infected? That being said, I was very promiscuous prior to marriage but that’s been many years now. Do you believe an HPV wart could show within 4-7 days from potential exposure?
You may be onto something with the soap idea since I do use whatever soap/shampoo is available when traveling. I will purchase some scent-free sensitive body wash for future trips and see if that helps.
All that being said, regardless of what the IGG test shows next week, I am already seeking counseling and have written off this type of activity forever. It’s unhealthy, dishonest and sadly damaging in so many ways. I do appreciate the judgement free “zone” here but I have to come to the realization that something has to change with me.
You may be onto something with the soap idea since I do use whatever soap/shampoo is available when traveling. I will purchase some scent-free sensitive body wash for future trips and see if that helps.
All that being said, regardless of what the IGG test shows next week, I am already seeking counseling and have written off this type of activity forever. It’s unhealthy, dishonest and sadly damaging in so many ways. I do appreciate the judgement free “zone” here but I have to come to the realization that something has to change with me.
Oh no, the incubation period for HPV varies depending on the source, but it's generally between 1-8 months, going up to 20 months, with an average of 3-6 months. I've seen as long as 7 years, convincingly once, though.
A few days wouldn't be possible for HPV, ever. The very least would be a month.
I'm glad you're getting counseling. I'm a big believer in therapy, and hope it helps. It can take some trial and error, sometimes, so don't hesitate to find another therapist if you don't click with the first one, or even the second.
Hotel soaps often smell really good, but that's because of all the fragrance and crap they put in it. I hope it's as easy as that.
Let me know about that, and the IgG. Good luck!
A few days wouldn't be possible for HPV, ever. The very least would be a month.
I'm glad you're getting counseling. I'm a big believer in therapy, and hope it helps. It can take some trial and error, sometimes, so don't hesitate to find another therapist if you don't click with the first one, or even the second.
Hotel soaps often smell really good, but that's because of all the fragrance and crap they put in it. I hope it's as easy as that.
Let me know about that, and the IgG. Good luck!
Ok. So that timeline matches with what Ive read and been told from the doctor. It does make me wonder why I would’ve had an HPV wart show within 4-7 days of that protected oral encounter. Makes me wonder if there is anything else, STD wise, that would cause that to happen versus just pure anxiety and regret from that encounter as well. Can a dormant HPV become “active” due to intense anxiety and appear as a wart because of stress/anxiety even if I’ve never shown any warts? Makes me ponder what caused it…I had the same coolness/tingling prior to it appearing as I had with this recent encounter except, no wart. Only the tiny red bumps on penis head which, as you already know, freaked me out. There was no other encounter prior to the wart appearing except that one-time protected oral encounter. So confusing…
We don't know exactly what causes HPV to become active again, but there are other things that become active again due to stress and anxiety, and the more stress there is, the higher the chances. Other illnesses can do it, too. Basically, the more your body is run down, the more run down your immune system becomes, allowing other things to surface.
I think the timing of the wart and oral is coincidence, unless you had a lot of other stress with it, and then added the stress of going outside your marriage.
The thing with HPV is there aren't a lot of definitives. If this was chlamydia, it would be a lot easier to explain.
Hang in there.
I think the timing of the wart and oral is coincidence, unless you had a lot of other stress with it, and then added the stress of going outside your marriage.
The thing with HPV is there aren't a lot of definitives. If this was chlamydia, it would be a lot easier to explain.
Hang in there.
Week six update - lab work submitted for HSV2 IGG test. Hope to have results tomorrow.
Correction regarding “sores” that come and go…they are not going away in 1-2 days. The recent one I mentioned is just now healed up. There’s no blister, fluids or oozing. Just small red sores. Now I have two more just show up just below waistline. Sometimes I can feel them before they show up. Not sure what to make about these random sores. Find it hard to believe they have always come and go and somehow I never notified before my hyper vigilance of that area.
Also, a few days recently I felt discomfort/pain in the right groin area. Perhaps a sciatic nerve pain? The only thing that would explain that would be recent bike riding. So confused…having a hard time believing this isn’t HSV2. :/
Not sure how much confidence to put in tomorrows lab results at six weeks either. But feels like it would be a good indicator.
Correction regarding “sores” that come and go…they are not going away in 1-2 days. The recent one I mentioned is just now healed up. There’s no blister, fluids or oozing. Just small red sores. Now I have two more just show up just below waistline. Sometimes I can feel them before they show up. Not sure what to make about these random sores. Find it hard to believe they have always come and go and somehow I never notified before my hyper vigilance of that area.
Also, a few days recently I felt discomfort/pain in the right groin area. Perhaps a sciatic nerve pain? The only thing that would explain that would be recent bike riding. So confused…having a hard time believing this isn’t HSV2. :/
Not sure how much confidence to put in tomorrows lab results at six weeks either. But feels like it would be a good indicator.
70% test positive by 6 weeks, so that's how much confidence you can put into those results, with the knowledge that you had very little risk for hsv2 in the first place.
I'm not sure the random sores have always been there, but maybe some of the tingling and such that you're experience has, especially if you bike. Definitely, sciatica could be causing some of this, or another hip/back/leg issue.
Let me know what you're results are. Remember that anything between a 1.10 and 3.5 is likely to be a false positive.
I'm not sure the random sores have always been there, but maybe some of the tingling and such that you're experience has, especially if you bike. Definitely, sciatica could be causing some of this, or another hip/back/leg issue.
Let me know what you're results are. Remember that anything between a 1.10 and 3.5 is likely to be a false positive.
HSV2 IGG test results - Negative! :) I’m still in shock!
So recommend to test again at 12 weeks to be conclusive correct?
Trying to wrap my head around good news at six weeks and what is actually happening with my body. All the symptoms, particularly the tiny red bumps on penis head and the random sores that appear and fade away.
So recommend to test again at 12 weeks to be conclusive correct?
Trying to wrap my head around good news at six weeks and what is actually happening with my body. All the symptoms, particularly the tiny red bumps on penis head and the random sores that appear and fade away.
Yes, test again at 12 weeks, and maybe in the meantime, work with a dermatologist, because right now, odds say this is not hsv2.
Congrats, and also start working on your guilt, and accepting that you might not actually have this. Counseling?
Congrats, and also start working on your guilt, and accepting that you might not actually have this. Counseling?
Will do.
I’ve already started counseling. :)
I will post an update if anything changes and definitely once I have the 12 week test results.
Thank you!
I’ve already started counseling. :)
I will post an update if anything changes and definitely once I have the 12 week test results.
Thank you!
Sounds good, take care!
Well into week 12 now and just did the HSV2 IGG lab test. Results to follow when they call me.
Oh I'll be looking forward to it. Hope you are doing well otherwise. :)
UPDATE….the office calls and says “your lab results are in and the doc would like to schedule an appointment for two weeks from now”. So I drove to the doctors office and insisted on NOT waiting two weeks. The doc walks in and says, “you tested positive”. My heart sank. I said doc can I see the paperwork? I looked at it and he tested me for both HSV1 and HSV2 (IGG of course). I tested positive for HSV1 and negative for HSV2!!!
I already knew I was positive for HSV1 due to cold sores. But I am so thankful to be negative for HSV2!! Of course, this doesn’t mean I couldn’t have picked up HSV1 in the genitals but according to everything I’ve read, that would be very rare since I was already HSV1 positive.
Auntiejessie…THANK YOU SO MUCH for being a sounding board and voice of reason during my terrible mistake. I will continue with counseling now and have a whole new perspective on my current relationship.
I already knew I was positive for HSV1 due to cold sores. But I am so thankful to be negative for HSV2!! Of course, this doesn’t mean I couldn’t have picked up HSV1 in the genitals but according to everything I’ve read, that would be very rare since I was already HSV1 positive.
Auntiejessie…THANK YOU SO MUCH for being a sounding board and voice of reason during my terrible mistake. I will continue with counseling now and have a whole new perspective on my current relationship.
Okay, so first - CONGRATS!! and GOOD FOR YOU for not waiting two freaking weeks. That's insanity!
And what drama - you knew you had hsv1, and all that fuss for hsv1. Your doc needs to work on the delivery, clearly.
I'm so happy for you, and definitely continue the counseling. Take great care of yourself. Wishing you only the best. :)
And what drama - you knew you had hsv1, and all that fuss for hsv1. Your doc needs to work on the delivery, clearly.
I'm so happy for you, and definitely continue the counseling. Take great care of yourself. Wishing you only the best. :)
Hi AuntieJessie…all is well and no new “incidents” to report. :) However, I do have a question relating to a previous incident we briefly touched on and wanted to get your opinion.
The only other encounter I had, as previously mentioned, was March 2021 and it was protected oral sex only (received). Around 2-3 days later upon arriving home, I had unprotected sex with my spouse like we always had done. Then, while on the road for three days, is where the previously mentioned wart on shaft appeared. When I returned home, and explained to the doc my protected exposure, he prescribed me doxycycline and gave me a shot in the ass as preventative. He took blood tests prior to the meds and all those came back negative. He visually diagnosed my wart as HPV and said to use a condom with my spouse going forward, which we have done ever since.
So my question is this…only 2-3 days after the protected oral encounter I had unprotected vaginal sex with my wife. Could I have possibly exposed or transmitted syphillis with that one encounter and then have been treated so quickly that I didn’t even know I had it? Is it possible to transmit syphillis within 2-3 days of exposure without any, at least visually, lesions or sores?
I’ve had several labs done since as you know and I’ve never tested positive but it has had my mind wondering for quite some time. Can syphillis transfer that quickly after exposure?
The only other encounter I had, as previously mentioned, was March 2021 and it was protected oral sex only (received). Around 2-3 days later upon arriving home, I had unprotected sex with my spouse like we always had done. Then, while on the road for three days, is where the previously mentioned wart on shaft appeared. When I returned home, and explained to the doc my protected exposure, he prescribed me doxycycline and gave me a shot in the ass as preventative. He took blood tests prior to the meds and all those came back negative. He visually diagnosed my wart as HPV and said to use a condom with my spouse going forward, which we have done ever since.
So my question is this…only 2-3 days after the protected oral encounter I had unprotected vaginal sex with my wife. Could I have possibly exposed or transmitted syphillis with that one encounter and then have been treated so quickly that I didn’t even know I had it? Is it possible to transmit syphillis within 2-3 days of exposure without any, at least visually, lesions or sores?
I’ve had several labs done since as you know and I’ve never tested positive but it has had my mind wondering for quite some time. Can syphillis transfer that quickly after exposure?
It's possible, in theory, but really, really unlikely for a number of reasons.
First, syphilis is uncommon in most developed countries. I know you travel, but really, even in places where it's more common, it's not as common as other infections.
You used protection. Getting syphilis from a one-time, protected oral encounter would be unusual.
You are more infectious when a sore or rash is present, not before.
If your wife had been infected, she'd have just reinfected you by now, and you'd have positive tests.
I wouldn't worry about this any longer. Also, you had condom-protected oral sex. Your doctor overused antibiotics. Oral sex is lower risk than penis in vagina sex, and you used a condom. You had no need to take the antibiotics.
Really, let this all go. It's okay to do that. :)
First, syphilis is uncommon in most developed countries. I know you travel, but really, even in places where it's more common, it's not as common as other infections.
You used protection. Getting syphilis from a one-time, protected oral encounter would be unusual.
You are more infectious when a sore or rash is present, not before.
If your wife had been infected, she'd have just reinfected you by now, and you'd have positive tests.
I wouldn't worry about this any longer. Also, you had condom-protected oral sex. Your doctor overused antibiotics. Oral sex is lower risk than penis in vagina sex, and you used a condom. You had no need to take the antibiotics.
Really, let this all go. It's okay to do that. :)
Thank you! I appreciate your response and will let this go. :)
Hope all is well for you!
Hope all is well for you!
Things are well. :)
Take care!
Take care!
Have an Answer?
You are reading content posted in the Herpes Community
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Millions of people are diagnosed with STDs in the U.S. each year.
STDs can't be transmitted by casual contact, like hugging or touching.
Syphilis is an STD that is transmitted by oral, genital and anal sex.
