HERPES

Pimples on Penis

Dear Dr. Rob:

I’m a 55 year old male that just had a major outbreak of herpes for the first time……..I never was very sexually active in the past, if fact, I can count my partners on less than one hand, and have been with my current partner for many many years. I have noticed over the years that I would develop what I thought were pimples on my penis, but didn’t think much of it…….could these have been minor breakouts of herpes and I just happen to have a big one now?

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Dr Rob’s Response:

Dear Dear 55 Year Old with Pimples:

Bingo! It is very possible you had minor episodes in the past and episodes now. The only way to determine exactly what is going on is to go to your doctor and get a Herpes Select Test. I would suggest your partner do the same so you at least know what to do in terms of protection during sexual activity and whether or not it would be worthwhile going on herpes suppressive therapy.

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