Could These Be Simple Ingrown Hairs Instead of Herpes?
(18M) Today, I underwent a swab test, and my physician expressed a strong belief that what I’m experiencing is merely an irritation from shaving, as I had groomed myself a few days earlier. I was initially quite anxious when I discovered some fluid-filled bumps at the base of my penis. In my nervousness, I ended up popping them, and they now resemble typical ingrown hairs. Still, I would appreciate hearing others' perspectives on the matter. My girlfriend has undergone two tests for herpes, both blood and swab, and both returned negative. I’ve faced a similar situation before, had it tested, and those results were negative as well, leading me to believe it’s not herpes. I’m curious to know your thoughts. Thank you!
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 5:11:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some frustrating symptoms, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious about what they could indicate. Based on what you've shared, it seems likely that what you're experiencing could be irritation from shaving or possibly ingrown hairs rather than herpes. Let’s break this down.
Explanation:
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Swab Test & Medical Opinion: Your physician has noted that the bumps might be from shaving irritation, which is common, especially if you've recently groomed the area. The fact that your girlfriend has had negative tests for herpes is reassuring, particularly since you’ve had similar experiences tested in the past that returned negative results.
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Popping Bumps: Popping the bumps can sometimes lead to irritation or infection and can cause them to look different afterward. Ingrown hairs can form fluid-filled bumps and might resemble what you're experiencing.
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Symptoms of Ingrown Hairs vs. Herpes: Ingrown hairs usually do not have widespread systemic symptoms (like chills, fever, or general illness), while herpes lesions are often more painful and can come with other symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Observe the Area: Monitor the bumps for any changes over the next few days. Note if they improve, worsen, or if you develop any new symptoms.
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Practice Good Hygiene: Keep the area clean and avoid further irritation. You might consider using a mild antiseptic wash to keep the area clean.
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Avoid Shaving Temporarily: Give your skin a break from shaving to see if this might help alleviate the problem.
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Moisturize: If your skin tends to get dry, consider applying a fragrance-free moisturizer to reduce irritation.
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Watch for Severe Symptoms: If you notice increased pain, fever, swelling, or if new blisters appear, consider revisiting a healthcare provider.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution if your symptoms change or worsen. You’re already taking the right steps by seeking medical opinions, and keeping things monitored is vital. If you need further reassurance or guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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