Genital Herpes - Recognizing Its Basic Phases

There are five stages of herpes, each defined by the progression of the herpes outbreak. With the first herpes outbreak after the contraction of the disease, these stages are often pronounced and dramatic.
To find out more about the stages of a herpes outbreak and the healing process, read on.
Stages of Herpes
Early Redness
When an outbreak of genital herpes begins to occur, it typically starts with redness and irritation on a small part of the skin. The affected area could be itchy, painful or very sensitive to the touch - almost like a "hot spot."
Swelling of the Affected Area
Depending on where the outbreak occurs, swelling may or may not occur. It's an inflammation of the region and a response of the body's immune system.
Blisters or Sores
Typically, with a genital herpes outbreak, small blisters will begin to appear. They will be filled with either red, clear or whitish fluid and will form over the area that was previously affected by swelling and redness. They may manifest as a single or multiple blisters. You should not attempt to pop the blisters. They will break automatically during the next stage of the disease.
Wet Ulcers or Broken Sores
Wet ulcers are one of the most painful stages of herpes. They are what happens when herpes blisters burst or break. Once the blisters are drained, the individual is left with open sores that are raw, tender and very sensitive. If at any point you touch an open sore, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward - certainly before you eat or touch someone else.
Scabs or Dry Crust
Once the wet ulcers begin healing, scabs will start to form over the region. Eventually, the dry crusts will harden and new skin will start to grow. Over time, the scab will fall off and the external symptoms of the disease will be temporarily gone.
The End of Healing
After a herpes outbreak, healing is considered complete once the scabs fall off or the sores dry up and disappear. The skin may still appear red, but it is no longer sore or visibly affected.
The Spread of Herpes
Even though your herpes outbreak may be over and done with, you can still spread the disease. When an outbreak isn't present, this is called the asymptomatic phase, which means there are no symptoms. However, the disease is still present and though the risk is small, it can still be spread.
Since there is no treatment to fully affect or prevent the spread of genital herpes, it's critical that people who have been diagnosed with genital herpes always use a condom or latex barrier during sexual contact.
It's also important to remember that condoms are not 100% effective in preventing the transmission of herpes. If the affected area is outside the area covered or protected by the condom, the disease may still be spread.
So, even though you are not experiencing any of the visible stages of herpes, it's important to provide protection during any sexual encounter.