Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSymptomsCausesDiagnosisTreatmentPrevention
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Depending on the underlying cause, a genital rash can look like a single sore, itchy red bumps, or widespread inflamed, scaly skin. Pictures of genital rashes can help you to identify symptoms but it is essential that a healthcare provider diagnose and, if needed, treat your condition.
Genital rash symptoms can be different due to the underlying cause. These symptoms may include:
Whether you know the underlying cause or not, contact your healthcare provider if you have:
When to Call 911Call 911 immediately if you have a rash and swelling of the tongue or lips, vomiting, or trouble breathing. These are symptoms ofanaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
When to Call 911
Call 911 immediately if you have a rash and swelling of the tongue or lips, vomiting, or trouble breathing. These are symptoms ofanaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Genital rashes often result from contagious bacterial, fungal, parasitic, or viral infections.You can also develop a rash on the groin due to an acute (temporary) or chronic (recurring) skin condition.
1. Jock Itch
Jock itch(tinea cruris) is a fungal infection most commonly associated with theTrichophytongenus of fungi. It can spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact or from a fungal infection on the feet, known as athlete’s foot.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
2. Yeast Infection
If the immune system is weakened, the fungus can grow out of control.
Symptoms that can accompany a genital rash from a yeast infection include:
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
3. Genital Herpes
Herpes manifests with one or more blisters on or around the genitals or anus which break and leave painful, oozing sores.
Flu-like symptoms may also accompany the rash.
4. Genital Warts
Genital warts usually appear as a small bump or group of bumps on the genitals or anus. They can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower.
Unlike some types of HPV, those that cause warts usually do not progress to cancer.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
5. Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum(MC) is a viral skin infection that causes small, wart-like growths that may be painless or cause itchiness or soreness.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two topical agents for the treatment of MC:
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
6. Pubic Lice
7. Syphilis
Syphilis has four stages, the first of which causes a painless, open ulcer (called achancre) on the genitals, rectum, or in the mouth.
There will often be only one chancre, ranging in size from a tiny pea to as large as a quarter, although some people may have more than one lesion.
8. Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativais an inflammatory condition that most commonly affects the armpits, groin, or under the breasts.
The cause is unknown but believed to be the result of blocked sweat glands along with certain genetic and environmental factors.
The condition causes inflamed, swollen bumps that break open and ooze fluid or pus.
9. Intertrigo
Intertrigo(intertriginous dermatitis) is known as diaper rash in babies. However, it can also affect adults due to poor hygiene and excessive moisture in the groin and other skin folds (such as the armpits and under the breasts).
Intertrigo causes a swollen, glistening rash along with scaling around the edges. Burning, stinging, or itching is also common.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Te Whatu Ora Waikatodermnetnz.org2024.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Te Whatu Ora Waikatodermnetnz.org2024.
10. Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis is a form of the autoimmune diseasepsoriasisthat specifically targets skin folds. The condition is most commonly seen around the genitals and armpits, under the breasts or belly folds, and between the buttocks.
Psoriasis typically appears as raised areas of inflamed skin covered with silvery-white, scaly skin.
11. Lichen Planus
Lichen planusis an inflammatory, immune-related disorder that affects the skin, nails, hair, and mucous membranes.
The rash consists of raised, flat, purplish bumps that may be itchy or irritating. Genital lichen planus may affect the head of the penis and scrotum, or the vulva and vagina.
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown.
12. Lichen Sclerosus
Lichen sclerosusis another immune-related disorder that can affect any body part but often appears on the penis and vulva. Like lichen planus, it is not contagious, and the exact cause is unknown.
The condition can cause shiny, white spots on the vulva and white patches on the foreskin and head of the penis. In addition to itching, there may be bruising, cracking, tearing, and peeling.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Dr Richard Ashtondermnetnz.org2024.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Dr Richard Ashtondermnetnz.org2024.
13. Scabies
Some skin lesions and other symptoms are distinctive and make it easier to diagnose a genital rash, but see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis even if you think you know the cause. A physical exam, complete medical history, and tests can be used to pinpoint the condition.
Tests can include:
Treatment for genital rashes depends on the cause. For instance, yeast infections often are treated with over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments. OTC creams such as hydrocortisone also can help to relieve itching, or a prescription ointment may be needed.
With other conditions, specific treatments may include:
Regular physical exams and, when appropriate,Pap smears, are highly recommended for anyone who has had a genital skin rash due to asexually transmitted infection.
DoUse a condom during sexual intercourseWear breathable underwear (e.g. cotton)Change underwear every dayKeep your genital area dry; remove wet swimsuitsWash your genital area with soap and water dailyDon’tUse hot tubs or untreated poolsEat excessive sugar, which promotes the growth of yeastUse scented feminine products (e.g. soaps) on your genitalsShare bedding or clothing with anyone who has an infection in their genital area
DoUse a condom during sexual intercourseWear breathable underwear (e.g. cotton)Change underwear every dayKeep your genital area dry; remove wet swimsuitsWash your genital area with soap and water daily
Use a condom during sexual intercourse
Wear breathable underwear (e.g. cotton)
Change underwear every day
Keep your genital area dry; remove wet swimsuits
Wash your genital area with soap and water daily
Don’tUse hot tubs or untreated poolsEat excessive sugar, which promotes the growth of yeastUse scented feminine products (e.g. soaps) on your genitalsShare bedding or clothing with anyone who has an infection in their genital area
Use hot tubs or untreated pools
Eat excessive sugar, which promotes the growth of yeast
Use scented feminine products (e.g. soaps) on your genitals
Share bedding or clothing with anyone who has an infection in their genital area
If you have a recurring yeast infection, contact your healthcare provider. Your provider may prescribe a medication like Diflucan (fluconazole) that can stop yeast infections from coming back.
Summary
Genital rashes may be itchy, red, and highly uncomfortable. Depending on the cause, your healthcare provider may prescribe an oral or topical medication to drive the rash away and ease symptoms like itching and inflammation.
24 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Jin Y, Gao Y, Luo Y, Tao X, Jiang Q, Fan X,et al.Clinical Characteristics and Pathogen Spectrum of Male Genital Fungal Infections in Nanchang Area, South China.Mycopathologia. 2024 Apr 16;189(3):33. doi: 10.1007/s11046-024-00839-0MedlinePlus.Genital sores-female.CK Birla Hospital.Causes & Treatment of Vaginal Itching.DermNet.Genital skin problems.Edward-Elmhurst Health.Do you need to see a doctor for that rash?.American Academy of Dermatology.8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief.Healthdirect Australia.Tinea.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Genital herpes.Kombe Kombe AJ, Li B, Zahid A, et al.Epidemiology and burden of human papillomavirus and related diseases, molecular pathogenesis, and vaccine evaluation.Front Public Health. 2021;8:552028. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.552028Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital HPV infection.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Molluscum contagiosum.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About pubic “crab” lice.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About syphilis.Benhadou F, Villani AP, Guillem P.Which factors determine affected sites in hidradenitis suppurativa?.Dermatology. 2020;236(1):15-20. doi:10.1159/000505292Metin A, Dilek N, Bilgili SG.Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.2018;11:175-185. doi:10.2147/CCID.S127841Knabel M, Mudaliar K.Histopathologic features of inverse psoriasis.J Cutan Pathol. 2022;49(3):246-251. doi:10.1111/cup.14142Cassol-Spanemberg J, Blanco-Carrión A, Rodríguez-de Rivera-Campillo ME, Estrugo-Devesa A, Jané-Salas E, López-López J.Cutaneous, genital and oral lichen planus: a descriptive study of 274 patients.Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2019;24(1):e1-e7. doi:10.4317/medoral.22656Lee A, Fischer G.Diagnosis and treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus: an update for dermatologists.Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(5):695-706. doi:10.1007/s40257-018-0364-7Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How Scabies Spreads.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Anogenital warts.American Academy of Family Physicians.Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Rapid Evidence Review.
24 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Jin Y, Gao Y, Luo Y, Tao X, Jiang Q, Fan X,et al.Clinical Characteristics and Pathogen Spectrum of Male Genital Fungal Infections in Nanchang Area, South China.Mycopathologia. 2024 Apr 16;189(3):33. doi: 10.1007/s11046-024-00839-0MedlinePlus.Genital sores-female.CK Birla Hospital.Causes & Treatment of Vaginal Itching.DermNet.Genital skin problems.Edward-Elmhurst Health.Do you need to see a doctor for that rash?.American Academy of Dermatology.8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief.Healthdirect Australia.Tinea.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Genital herpes.Kombe Kombe AJ, Li B, Zahid A, et al.Epidemiology and burden of human papillomavirus and related diseases, molecular pathogenesis, and vaccine evaluation.Front Public Health. 2021;8:552028. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.552028Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital HPV infection.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Molluscum contagiosum.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About pubic “crab” lice.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About syphilis.Benhadou F, Villani AP, Guillem P.Which factors determine affected sites in hidradenitis suppurativa?.Dermatology. 2020;236(1):15-20. doi:10.1159/000505292Metin A, Dilek N, Bilgili SG.Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.2018;11:175-185. doi:10.2147/CCID.S127841Knabel M, Mudaliar K.Histopathologic features of inverse psoriasis.J Cutan Pathol. 2022;49(3):246-251. doi:10.1111/cup.14142Cassol-Spanemberg J, Blanco-Carrión A, Rodríguez-de Rivera-Campillo ME, Estrugo-Devesa A, Jané-Salas E, López-López J.Cutaneous, genital and oral lichen planus: a descriptive study of 274 patients.Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2019;24(1):e1-e7. doi:10.4317/medoral.22656Lee A, Fischer G.Diagnosis and treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus: an update for dermatologists.Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(5):695-706. doi:10.1007/s40257-018-0364-7Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How Scabies Spreads.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Anogenital warts.American Academy of Family Physicians.Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Rapid Evidence Review.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Jin Y, Gao Y, Luo Y, Tao X, Jiang Q, Fan X,et al.Clinical Characteristics and Pathogen Spectrum of Male Genital Fungal Infections in Nanchang Area, South China.Mycopathologia. 2024 Apr 16;189(3):33. doi: 10.1007/s11046-024-00839-0MedlinePlus.Genital sores-female.CK Birla Hospital.Causes & Treatment of Vaginal Itching.DermNet.Genital skin problems.Edward-Elmhurst Health.Do you need to see a doctor for that rash?.American Academy of Dermatology.8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief.Healthdirect Australia.Tinea.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Genital herpes.Kombe Kombe AJ, Li B, Zahid A, et al.Epidemiology and burden of human papillomavirus and related diseases, molecular pathogenesis, and vaccine evaluation.Front Public Health. 2021;8:552028. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.552028Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital HPV infection.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Molluscum contagiosum.Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About pubic “crab” lice.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About syphilis.Benhadou F, Villani AP, Guillem P.Which factors determine affected sites in hidradenitis suppurativa?.Dermatology. 2020;236(1):15-20. doi:10.1159/000505292Metin A, Dilek N, Bilgili SG.Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.2018;11:175-185. doi:10.2147/CCID.S127841Knabel M, Mudaliar K.Histopathologic features of inverse psoriasis.J Cutan Pathol. 2022;49(3):246-251. doi:10.1111/cup.14142Cassol-Spanemberg J, Blanco-Carrión A, Rodríguez-de Rivera-Campillo ME, Estrugo-Devesa A, Jané-Salas E, López-López J.Cutaneous, genital and oral lichen planus: a descriptive study of 274 patients.Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2019;24(1):e1-e7. doi:10.4317/medoral.22656Lee A, Fischer G.Diagnosis and treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus: an update for dermatologists.Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(5):695-706. doi:10.1007/s40257-018-0364-7Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How Scabies Spreads.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Anogenital warts.American Academy of Family Physicians.Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Rapid Evidence Review.
Jin Y, Gao Y, Luo Y, Tao X, Jiang Q, Fan X,et al.Clinical Characteristics and Pathogen Spectrum of Male Genital Fungal Infections in Nanchang Area, South China.Mycopathologia. 2024 Apr 16;189(3):33. doi: 10.1007/s11046-024-00839-0
MedlinePlus.Genital sores-female.
CK Birla Hospital.Causes & Treatment of Vaginal Itching.
DermNet.Genital skin problems.
Edward-Elmhurst Health.Do you need to see a doctor for that rash?.
American Academy of Dermatology.8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief.
Healthdirect Australia.Tinea.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Genital herpes.
Kombe Kombe AJ, Li B, Zahid A, et al.Epidemiology and burden of human papillomavirus and related diseases, molecular pathogenesis, and vaccine evaluation.Front Public Health. 2021;8:552028. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.552028
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital HPV infection.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Molluscum contagiosum.
Food and Drug Administration.Ycanth label.
Food and Drug Administration.Zelsuvmi label.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About pubic “crab” lice.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About syphilis.
Benhadou F, Villani AP, Guillem P.Which factors determine affected sites in hidradenitis suppurativa?.Dermatology. 2020;236(1):15-20. doi:10.1159/000505292
Metin A, Dilek N, Bilgili SG.Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.2018;11:175-185. doi:10.2147/CCID.S127841
Knabel M, Mudaliar K.Histopathologic features of inverse psoriasis.J Cutan Pathol. 2022;49(3):246-251. doi:10.1111/cup.14142
Cassol-Spanemberg J, Blanco-Carrión A, Rodríguez-de Rivera-Campillo ME, Estrugo-Devesa A, Jané-Salas E, López-López J.Cutaneous, genital and oral lichen planus: a descriptive study of 274 patients.Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2019;24(1):e1-e7. doi:10.4317/medoral.22656
Lee A, Fischer G.Diagnosis and treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus: an update for dermatologists.Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(5):695-706. doi:10.1007/s40257-018-0364-7
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How Scabies Spreads.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Anogenital warts.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Rapid Evidence Review.
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