Signs of infection in the genital area

Generally, when you develop a skin infection it means you have had an injury to the skin, a rash, or an infected hair follicle (folliculitis). You may not even notice a very minor injury.

Signs of a skin infection may include:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the area.
• Red streaks extending from the area.
• Drainage of pus from the area.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin.
• Fever of 100F or higher.

Wound infections can lead to more serious infections of the:

• Skin (cellulitis).
• Penis or scrotum and deeper tissues of the genital area (Fournier's gangrene).
• Entire body (sepsis).

Certain diseases may increase your risk of a serious infection. People with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or an impaired immune system may require medical treatment at the first signs of infection.

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) may cause similar symptoms in the genital area. If you have signs of infection in your genital area, do not have sexual contact or activity until you have been evaluated by your health professional. This will reduce the risk of spreading a possible infection to your partner. Your sex partner may also need to be evaluated and treated.