Many people are familiar with herpes outbreaks in the genital or oral areas, but did you know that it is also possible to get herpes on your buttocks?
Although not very common, infections with the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can indeed cause symptoms on the buttocks. In this article, we explore how both genital herpes (HSV-2) and, less commonly, oral herpes (HSV-1) can lead to herpes outbreaks on your derriere.
Understanding genital herpes and buttock outbreaks
To fully understand how herpes can affect your butt, we must first examine the nature of genital herpes.
Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), is a sexually transmitted infection characterized by painful sores or blisters in the genital region. The virus spreads through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, with a person who has HSV-2.
After the initial genital herpes infection, which often causes the most severe symptoms, the virus remains in the body and lies dormant in nerve cells. From time to time, the virus can reactivate, leading to recurring outbreaks.
It’s worth noting that these repeated flare-ups tend to be milder than the first episode and usually become less frequent as time goes on.
Can genital herpes cause herpes on the buttocks?
Yes, genital herpes can cause outbreaks on the buttocks. Here are a few ways HSV-2 can spread to this area:
Viral shedding
Even if no visible sores are present, the herpes virus can be active on the surface of the skin, known as viral shedding. If the virus spreads to the perianal area (the skin around the anus), it can spread to the nearby buttocks.
Auto-inoculation
An infected individual can accidentally spread the virus from one part of their body to another through touch, a process called autoinoculation. For example, if you have an active outbreak of genital herpes and touch the sores, you could unknowingly transfer the virus to your buttocks if you then touch that area without washing your hands first.
Sexual contact
During sexual activity, the buttocks may come into contact with the genital area. If your partner has an active outbreak of genital herpes or is experiencing viral shedding, the virus can be transmitted to your buttocks through this skin-to-skin contact.
Can oral herpes cause herpes on the butt?
Although less common, it is possible for oral herpes (HSV-1) to cause outbreaks on the buttocks. This can happen through oral-anal contact, also known as analingus or rimming. If a person with an active outbreak of oral herpes performs anilingus on a partner, they can potentially transmit the virus to the recipient’s perianal area and buttocks.
So yes. It can to happen. However, transmission of HSV-2 from genitals to buttocks remains the most common scenario.
Symptoms of herpes on the buttocks
Herpes outbreaks on the buttocks can be mimic the symptoms of genital herpes. These may include:
- Small, painful blisters or sores on the buttocks or in the crease between the buttocks and thighs (called the buttock crease)
- Itching, burning or tingling sensation before the sores appear
- Ulcers that form when the blisters rupture
- Scabs that develop as the ulcers heal
In some cases, people may also experience flu-like symptoms during an outbreak, such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Diagnosis and treatment
If you think you have herpes on your buttocks, don’t hesitate to see a doctor. They will perform a physical examination and may take a sample of the sores for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of HSV.
Although there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help control the infection. These medications – such as acyclovir, valaciclovir and famciclovir – can shorten the duration of outbreaks, reduce the severity of symptoms and reduce the frequency of recurrences.
Your doctor may prescribe them for episodic treatment (taken during an outbreak) or as daily suppressive therapy to prevent future outbreaks.
In addition to antiviral medications, self-care measures can help relieve discomfort during an outbreak:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Wear loose cotton underwear to minimize friction and irritation.
- Apply cool compresses or ice packs to soothe pain and itching.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Enjoy a warm bath with Epsom salt to promote healing.
Prevention and safe sex practices
If you or your partner have genital herpes, you can take steps to reduce the risk of transmission:
- Use condoms during vaginal, anal and oral sex. Although condoms do not provide complete protection against herpes, they can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
- Avoid sexual activity during active outbreaks. The risk of spreading the virus is greatest when sores are present.
- Consider suppressive therapy. Taking antiviral medications daily can significantly reduce the chance of transmitting the virus to a partner.
- Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching any sores and avoid touching other parts of your body to prevent autoinoculation.
To remind, open communication with your sexual partners is key. Discuss your herpes status, practice safe sex, and work with your healthcare provider to control the infection.
The bottom line
Do you notice bumps on your buttocks? Worried it could be herpes? Trust your instincts and take action. Visit one local STD testing center to get the answers. Your health is worth it!