Are you experiencing discomfort because of sores in your mouth or lesions in your genital area? These could very well be the signs of herpes. Herpes comes in two different forms. The first is Herpes Simplex Type 1, oral herpes that reveals itself in cold sores. Then there's Herpes Simplex Type 2, otherwise known as genital herpes. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, although it can be transmitted to the mouth during oral sexual contact, too.

But really, how do you know for sure if these unpleasant sores are actually symptoms of herpes, or something else? A lot of times, especially where women are concerned, genital herpes is misdiagnosed as something else. A yeast infection, for example, or boils, or even pelvic inflammatory disease. If you're not sure, it's a good idea to do some research on this disease. If you visit your doctor, he or she can positively identify what you're suffering from. But let's get down to the details on the signs of herpes.

Red bumps and blisters are a very common symptom of herpes. They can occur in all genital areas, as well as near the urethra, anus, thighs, and buttocks. Women can even have the blisters inside their vaginas, as well as vaginal discharge and pain while urinating.

The first outbreak could last somewhere around three weeks for women, on average. For men, they can expect to endure it for two weeks. Women need to be aware that they could develop meningitis, a direct result of the first herpes outbreak. Other symptoms of an outbreak of genital herpes include swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin, headaches, muscle aches, fever, and lower back pain. If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms along with sores in your genital area, consult your doctor.

Unfortunately, recurring outbreaks are common. About four in five people can expect more herpes outbreaks. Most people will have warning signs, however, most noticeably pain in the area where they tend to develop sores. Consider these signs of herpes as a warning, and remember that you're very contagious at this time, even without the sores!