When a man notices a rash on his manhood, he’s likely to get very concerned – and for good reason. Though most rashes on or around the manhood are benign and will go away after a few days, some of them are more serious. That can be the case with a herpes rash, which can progress to something very painful and unpleasant. Any man who is intimately active might wonder at some point if a rash on his manhood is herpes. Here’s what everyone needs to know about this condition.

The Basics of Herpes

First, a basic primer: Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. More than 50 percent of Americans have HSV-1, which is the form of herpes that causes sores in the mouth. These ulcers are usually called cold sores or fever blisters. There are many over-the-counter medications designed to help reduce the problem. This strain of herpes is quite common.

Genital herpes is not so common. A little less than 20 percent of people in the United States have HSV-2, which is the form of herpes that causes herpes outbreaks in private areas. For many people, herpes is quite mild, and a lot of those infected might have no idea they have it. For others, it can be more severe, leading to blisters and lesions on the manhood.

How do you know if it’s herpes or not?

There is no sure way to know if a rash or sore is caused by herpes without seeing a healthcare provider and having them diagnose the problem. It is important to see a healthcare provider if you have any new rash or sore, especially if you have never had a similar rash or sore before or if you have any other concerns about your health.

They can examine the rash or sore and perform tests to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

There are some signs and symptoms that may suggest that a rash or sore is caused by herpes including the presence of small, fluid-filled blisters that break open and form painful, shallow sores, a tingling or itching sensation in the area where the rash or sore will appear, and flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle aches.

These signs and symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Manhood Care with Herpes

One of the first signs of herpes is a rash on manhood. There are often other signs with the first outbreak, which can include flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and pains, nausea, fever, itching, burning, or tingling of the skin, especially in the private area.

Shortly after that, blisters appear. These blisters might start out as a mild rash but quickly progress to fluid-filled blisters around the manhood and the rear. They might be rather painful to the touch. When the blisters open up and release their fluid, they leave behind lesions, or open wounds, that can be even more painful. Sometimes these blisters even appear in the urethra, which can make urination hurt.

Once the blisters have drained and the lesions begin to heal, they will scab over just as any other wound might. The scabs will diminish and slough away over time, leaving healed skin behind. However, another outbreak could start the cycle all over again.

When dealing with a herpes outbreak, it’s safe to say the manhood skin is going through a tough time. Experts provide a few tips for dealing with it:

  • Don’t mess with the blisters! Wash hands thoroughly after touching the manhood.
  • Keep the area clean and dry.
  • Avoid tight clothing.
  • Avoid excess alcohol consumption.
  • Avoid UV light – no tanning beds, and no natural sunbathing.

Are herpes raised or flat?

Herpes sores can appear in a variety of forms, depending on the type of herpes infection and the location on the body.

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infections, which are typically caused by oral-to-oral transmission, usually cause sores on the mouth, lips, and face. These sores may appear as small, raised bumps that are filled with fluid and are often painful. They may eventually break open and form shallow, painful ulcers.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections, which are typically caused by sexual transmission, usually cause sores on the genitals. These sores may appear as small, raised bumps that are filled with fluid, or they may be flat and painless. They may also break open and form shallow, painful ulcers.

It is important to note that herpes sores may not always be present. Some people with herpes may have outbreaks of sores periodically, while others may have no visible sores at all but can still transmit the virus to others. If you are concerned that you may have herpes or have any other symptoms that concern you, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

A Final Word to the Wise

It’s important to remember that herpes can be spread easily, even when using a protective device appropriately each and every time. In addition, it can be spread before a person even shows any symptoms.

Therefore it is vitally important to tell all partners about herpes status, always use a protective device for some protection, and stay away from intimate activity during an active outbreak of herpes.

What triggers herpes outbreaks?

There are several factors that can trigger herpes outbreaks in people who are infected with the virus. These triggers can vary from person to person and may include:

  1. Stress: Stressful situations or events, such as illness, financial problems, or relationship issues, can cause herpes outbreaks.

  2. Illness: Being sick with a fever or other illness can weaken the immune system and trigger a herpes outbreak.

  3. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger herpes outbreaks.

  4. Sun exposure: Sun exposure or sunburn can trigger herpes outbreaks in some people.

  5. Trauma: Trauma to the skin, such as a cut or abrasion, can trigger a herpes outbreak in the affected area.

  6. Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of a herpes outbreak.

It is important to note that not all people with herpes will have outbreaks, and not all people with outbreaks will have the same triggers. If you are concerned about triggers for your own herpes outbreaks, it is a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you to identify potential triggers and suggest ways to manage or prevent outbreaks. 

Maintaining Good Manhood Care

When dealing with a herpes outbreak, the lesions and scabs can be unsightly and uncomfortable. When the manhood has healed, it’s time to use a good male organ health creme to get it back into tip-top shape.

Look for a crème that contains vitamin B5, known for cell regeneration, and vitamin E, known for repairing skin cells. Also look for Shea butter, a moisturizing agent with powerful healing properties. Any rash on the manhood – herpes or not – can benefit from these powerful ingredients applied on a daily basis.

John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men’s health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online websites.


Nicolas Desjardins

Hello everyone, I am the main writer for SIND Canada. I've been writing articles for more than 12 years and I like sharing my knowledge. I'm currently writing for many websites and newspapers. I always keep myself very informed to give you the best information. All my years as a computer scientist made me become an incredible researcher. You can contact me on our forum or by email at [email protected].