The incubation period for genital herpes is generally within 14 days.
Most people will not have any noticeable symptoms, or may not realize they have any symptoms. Some people may develop symptoms 2-7 days after infection, but it can also lie dormant in the body for weeks, months, or even years without being detected. Therefore, when symptoms do appear, it does not necessarily mean a new infection.
Since it is the first outbreak, the patient's immune system is not fully prepared, so the symptoms will be more noticeable. Symptoms usually follow a pattern and may include some or all of the following:
The first outbreak usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, after which the skin gradually scabs and heals.
After the first outbreak, the herpes virus remains dormant in the body. Factors like illness, other viral infections, poor nutrition, excessive stress, or any condition that weakens the immune system can trigger a recurrence of genital herpes.
When herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) causes a recurrence, the symptoms are generally similar to the first outbreak but usually milder and heal in a shorter time, typically lasting about a week. Genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is less likely to recur.
The frequency of recurrent genital herpes varies from person to person, typically occurring 4 to 5 times a year, but some may experience it 1 to 2 times a month or once every 1 to 2 years. Recurrences are usually more frequent in the first year and gradually decrease over time.