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  Thank you so much for your question.   I think you'll find it very helpful to read "Genital Herpes: The Basics."   You can also learn more about the symptoms, treatment and prevention of genital herpes here.    Symptoms of genital herpes vary from person to person. It is possible to have genital herpes for years before noticing an outbreak. Some people may have no symptoms - but they can still spread herpes! Sometimes only very mild sores appear, but are mistaken for an insect bite or other skin problems. If you have HIV, a genital herpes infection can be worse.   Some people have severe symptoms of genital herpes, such as many painful sores. An initial outbreak of genital herpes usually brings about symptoms within two weeks of having sexual contact with an infected person and can last from two to three weeks.  Genital herpes infection occurs through exposure of the genitals to the virus from a partner with active herpes. Genital herpes transmission can be the result of either genital or oral contact.   Thanks again for your question!