Genital Sores

Overview

Genital sores are abnormal spots on or around the genitals or anus, including blisters, bumps, open ulcers, scabs, or raw areas. They may be painful or painless, single or multiple, and can come with itching, burning, or discharge. Because the genital skin is delicate, sores there can be uncomfortable and worrying.

Many genital sores are caused by sexually transmitted infections, but not all are. Irritation, friction, allergic reactions, and certain skin conditions can also produce sores. Because some causes are contagious and several can be treated effectively, and because painless sores in particular can signal an infection that needs prompt treatment, most new genital sores should be checked by a clinician. Evaluation is confidential and routine.

Seeking care for a genital sore can feel awkward, but clinicians and sexual health services assess these problems routinely and confidentially every day. Getting an accurate diagnosis not only allows the right treatment but also provides reassurance and helps protect partners, so it is well worth overcoming any embarrassment.

Common Causes

Genital sores have a range of possible causes:

• Genital herpes: A viral infection causing painful blisters and ulcers that can recur. See genital herpes.
• Syphilis: A bacterial infection that often begins with a single, usually painless sore. See syphilis.
• Other sexually transmitted infections: Several less common infections can cause genital ulcers.
• Irritation and friction: From shaving, tight clothing, or vigorous activity.
• Allergic or contact reactions: To soaps, lubricants, latex, or hygiene products.
• Skin conditions: Such as eczema, psoriasis, or inflammatory disorders affecting the genital skin.
• Ingrown hairs or infected hair follicles.

Associated Symptoms

The symptoms that accompany genital sores help point to the cause:

• Pain, tenderness, itching, or burning at the sore
• Blisters that break open and crust over, common with herpes
• A single, firm, painless ulcer, which can occur with syphilis
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin
• Unusual discharge, pain with urination, or pain during sex
• Fever or feeling generally unwell during a first outbreak

Because painless sores can be just as important as painful ones, the absence of pain does not mean a sore is harmless. Any new or persistent genital sore is worth evaluating.

It also helps to recall whether you have had similar sores before. Sores that recur in the same area, often preceded by tingling, are typical of herpes, whereas a single new sore that you have not had before warrants testing for a range of causes. Sharing this history, confidentially, helps a clinician reach the right diagnosis quickly.

Diagnosis & Evaluation

A clinician will examine the sores and ask about your symptoms and history in a confidential setting. Evaluation may include:

• A visual examination of the sores and surrounding skin
• Swabs or samples: Taken from a sore to test for herpes or other infections
• Blood tests: To check for syphilis, HIV, and other infections
• Testing for other sexually transmitted infections, as more than one can be present
• A skin assessment if a non-infectious skin condition is suspected

Sexual health evaluation is routine and confidential, and accurate diagnosis guides effective treatment.

Treatment & Management

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Antiviral medication: For genital herpes, antivirals reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks.
• Antibiotics: Syphilis and some other bacterial infections are treated and often cured with antibiotics.
• Treating partners: Sexual partners may need testing and treatment to prevent reinfection and spread.
• Symptom relief: Keeping the area clean and dry, pain relief, and avoiding irritants.
• Avoiding irritation: Switching products, loosening clothing, and changing shaving habits for non-infectious causes.
• Treating skin conditions: Specific creams or therapies for eczema, psoriasis, or other disorders.

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor or sexual health clinic for any new genital sore, including painless ones, so the cause can be diagnosed and treated. Seek care sooner if you have:

• Spreading, multiple, or worsening sores
• Fever, swollen groin glands, or feeling generally unwell
• A first outbreak that is very painful or makes urination difficult
• Sores in someone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system

Prompt evaluation allows treatment, reduces the chance of spreading an infection, and provides reassurance. Avoid sexual contact until you have been assessed.

Related Topics

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Genital herpes and syphilis.
2. Mayo Clinic. Genital sores and sexually transmitted infections.
3. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Genital sores.
4. World Health Organization (WHO). Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).