Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Question
Published: December 19, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I notice every time after sex some small bumps appear on my penis and disappear in 2 or so days. Then if I have sex again they reappear the next day- Is this herpes?
Signed: Is This Herpes
Dear Is This Herpes,
Everyone who is sexually active should ask himself or herself the question, what's herpes and several other STD questions for that matter.
Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex viruses, type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is usually found in the mouth and facial area while HSV-2 in found in the genital area.
When signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur. In general, another outbreak can appear weeks or months after the first, but it is almost always less severe and shorter than the first episode. Although the virus stays in the body indefinitely, the number of outbreaks tends to go down over a period of years.
Your condition does not sound like it is herpes. This said, you still need to be tested for this and possibly other STDs. Teen health centers and Planned Parenthood can provide these services for little or no cost and without you parent's consent. While there you really need to educate yourself about safer sex and birth control.
As a note: Now that you know that this needs to be checked out if you continue to have sex and are aware of these bumps, it is irresponsible on your part and certainly not fair to your partner.
You can protect yourself from herpes and other sexually transmitted diseases by taking some precautions:
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Talk to your partner about their past sexual history. If there is a history of any STD, see a health care provider to discuss your options.
- Do not have skin-to-skin contact if your partner is having a herpes outbreak marked my sores.
- Practice safer sex at all times. Use a condom! Condoms do provide some protection, but if the condom does not cover a herpes sore or lesion you may be putting yourself at risk.
- Don't forget the pregnancy prevention. Current recommendations include using a condom with another method such as, spermicidal jelly or cream, the birth control pill or injectable birth control (Depo-Provera).
If you would like to meet with a doctor from the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health in Morristown, New Jersey, you can call 973.889.6350 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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