Both can start with redness, itching, or burning sensations and can occur almost anywhere on the body.
Typically, ingrown hair comes from an infected hair follicle. It may be reddened, raised, warm to the touch, or look like pimples on the skin and you may notice a hair at the center of the area. This can be common from shaving or products used to shave – soap or cream. We recommend using a clean washcloth with warm water to apply to the area several times daily and do not shave until healed or you could irritate the skin more or spread the infection.
Herpes lesions can occur anywhere on your body and may take longer to heal. You may also have other symptoms like a fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and in general not feeling well. These areas may be reddened, itchy or painful but may appear more like a scratch or open area. Once you have a herpes virus, this stays with you for the rest of your life.
Herpes can be treated and managed with medications but cannot be “cured.” Many people can have herpes and may never express symptoms or even know they have it. The best advice we can give is to always use protection when with a new partner in the form of condoms or dental dams. Having unprotected sex increases your risk for herpes and many other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you are experiencing any pain or burning in the genital area, we encourage you to come to the health center for an examination and discuss your symptoms with a provider. Testing can be completed to determine the cause of your symptoms, and treatment ordered if needed.
University students who are 24 or younger and do not have or cannot use insurance, may qualify for sexual health services for a free or reduced cost at the UNO Health Center. If you are interested in using grant funds, please speak to a provider or the nursing staff during your appointment for more details.
Call 402.554.2374 to schedule a UNO Health Center appointment or learn more about the sexual and reproductive health services we offer Maverick students.