I woke up yesterday morning with what looks like a rash about 2 1/2 to 3 inches above my penis and its about 3 inches wide. It itches terribly and im freaked out about what it might be. The last time I was in sexual contact with anyone was about 6 weeks ago and i used protection. I dont have a rash anywhere else in my genital region but by my right pelvis it seems to itch as well but no rash there. The rash looks sort of like poison ivy.....only thing is i live in the desert and in no way shape or form been near anythign remotely similiar...... Im really freaked out and plan to see the doctor tomorrow...any input would be appreciated. Is this herpes?

Don't freak out just yet. It could be anything at this point, including but not necessarily herpes. If it is, the fact that you used protection I think would explain why it is in the area not covered by a condom. There are definitley people on this site who have gotten it from protected sex. I will say that my OBs are rather poison ivy-looking and they itch but dont blister or hurt. The first one itched like CRAZY and I didnt know what it was. (subsequent outbreaks were so mild that I didnt even know I had this until 2 years later, but I then reflected and remembered the SUPER itchy bumpy "rash" I had had on my bottom!) But there are lots of things can cause an itchy rash, so don't freak out. Just see your dermatologist asap... while you have it. And if it IS herpes, still try not to freak out. It's great that you found this board, it is loaded with tons of info and supportive people in the same boat. My fingers will be crossed for you that it is NOT H, but if it is please remember that there are many worse things, even though at first it seems hard to believe!
Good luck
Movingrightalong

Im so freaked out about this.... It was 48 days since the night in question. I have been reading that it usually shows up between 2 to 10 days..... since its been a lot longer do you think my chances are better? Also the fact that the rash is several inches above my penis? are these good signs???? Im sorry i cant help but be worried to death about this.

Im so freaked out about this.... It was 48 days since the night in question. I have been reading that it usually shows up between 2 to 10 days..... since its been a lot longer do you think my chances are better? Also the fact that the rash is several inches above my penis? are these good signs???? Im sorry i cant help but be worried to death about this.

It could be lots of things. They say 2-20 days. Supposedly it can lay dormant for years... that's the wierd thing about it. Everybody is different. But it could anything from yeast to folliculitis to an alleric reaction to your laundry detergent to herpes. The good thing is that you're going to the doctor, hopefully you can get in today while you have the bumps. Are they still itching? Have they changed at all?
As far as location, unfortunately it can be anywhere. Mine is on my butt cheek, just inside the crack. There's a woman here who had it show up on her knee and someone else on her hip bone. I dont want to scare you, it really could be a number of things, just make sure and go to the doctor and hopefully he can put your mind at ease.
I totally understand that freaked out feeling, as do most people on this board. I don't think i ate for a week when I was fretting over this. My fingers AND toes are crossed for you to get good news that it is not H. Good luck and let us know how it goes at the doctor.
Movingrightalong

so far they havent changed.. its been the same since i noticed it. I think today they look a little less pink...however i just woke up and i havent been walking around letting my clothes rub on it.. we will see. im calling the doctor now.

I have just returned form the doctor and I was diagnosed with Zoster! It turns out the doctor deffinately doesnt think its herpes and with my symptoms and rash appear to be Zoster. If anyone has any questions on Zoster here is a quick link http://www.aad.org/pamphlets/herpesZoster.html. He has put me on Valtrex to clear it up and told me to come back and see him if it gets worse or it appears on any other part of the body especially the opposite side of my body the rash is on. Hopefully this is all it is. I am some what relieved at this time. Thx for all the posts and info

Jason