HERPES

Can Vaginal Itching and Blisters be Herpes?

Dear Dr. Tom:

I am a 17-year-old female that has been having some itching and blisters in my vaginal area. I have had sex only once and it has been about 4 years ago. However, these blisters and so on have only been present for about the last 6 months. I have gone to the doctor and they have taken a sample and are currently researching it. I have read that it usually only takes about 2-20 days before the symptoms start. Do you think that it is possible that I have herpes?
Thanks, Confused.

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Dr. Tom’s Response:

Dear Confused:

Vaginal itching and blisters in the vaginal area sounds suspiciously indicative of a herpes infection, among other possibilities. The way the virus manifests its disease conditions varies, so the sample taken by your doctor should provide some additional definitive information.

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