mr_hopp

Hi @danawhite, that dosage is in alignment with what I've seen. (And this is just as peer-to-peer info; I'm no doctor.) However, when Valtrex is used as daily suppressive therapy, it should only be *once* per day, not twice. You only take Valtrex 2x/day for 3 days for episodic treatment (when you're having an outbreak to lessen the severity of the outbreak). FYI, Acyclovir for daily suppressive therapy is twice daily (once in the morning, once at night). Also, as far as the stomach stuff goes, are you taking it after you've eaten something? Don't take on an empty stomach. Here are some reputable sources to check out: This article from NIH talks about taking 500mg daily of valacyclovir (Valtrex) brings down the chance of passing it to your partner by around 50%: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2687913/ Similarly on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/herpes.htm#:~:text=Treatment with valacyclovir 500 mg daily decreases the rate of HSV-2 transmission for discordant heterosexual couples in which a partner has a history of genital HSV-2 infection (also shows helpful "recommended regimens" sections)

At least some paranoia comes with the territory, especially thanks to the unnecessary/unfortunate stigma infused into our culture, so you're not alone in it! And there are 2 components to it dying down: Yes, time certainly helps, but the key to letting time do its job is choosing a vigilant, optimistic and grounded perspective. And that's the part that just takes practice. 😉 You got this!

Glad that helps! Yeah, when it comes to spreading HSV-1 orally through activities like kissing on the cheek or sharing meals and drinks, the likelihood is actually quite low. The main mode of transmission for HSV-1 is through direct contact with the affected area, such as the mouth or lips, during activities like kissing, oral sex, or penetration. So, the risk of transmission through casual activities like cheek kisses or sharing meals and drinks is minimal. I totally get that the internet is chock-full of fear-mongering, with conflicting information that can make you second-guess everything. But here's the deal: HSV is not easily transmitted through casual contact or inanimate objects. The virus is quite fragile and doesn't survive for long outside the body. So, yes, of course practice good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items during an active outbreak, and know it's not something to be paranoid about; the risk of transmission through these everyday activities is generally very low. Remember, the key to preventing transmission is being aware of your own body and taking precautions during times of active outbreaks or visible symptoms. And of course have open and honest communication with potential partners about your herpes status so they can make informed decisions about their own risk and taking any necessary precautions. Please don't let fear or misinformation dictate your actions. By staying informed, practicing safe behaviors during outbreaks, and being open in your communication, you can navigate your relationships with confidence and reduce the risk of transmission.

Hey there, Thanks for reaching out and sharing your concerns about the potential connection between sauna use and HSV-2 outbreaks. I totally understand you wanting to identify the possible triggers and find ways to reduce the frequency of your outbreaks. The relationship between extreme heat exposure, such as saunas, and herpes outbreaks can vary from person to person. While some sources suggest that heat can potentially trigger outbreaks, others highlight the positive effects of increased circulation and toxin elimination through sweating. It's indeed a bit confusing when different articles provide contradictory information. It is generally understood that anything that overly taxes your immune system can potentially trigger an outbreak. In your case, considering the increase in outbreak frequency since you installed the sauna, it's understandable to question if there could be a connection. While there isn't definitive scientific evidence on this specific correlation, paying attention to your personal experiences and patterns can provide some valuable insights. If you suspect that sauna use might be a trigger for you, it could be worth experimenting with reducing or temporarily discontinuing sauna sessions to see if it makes a difference in your outbreak frequency. Regarding L-Lysine, it's commonly mentioned as a potential supplement for managing herpes outbreaks. While it's often associated with HSV-1, some individuals with HSV-2 have also reported positive results. Adding L-Lysine to your suppressive treatment with Valtrex might be worth a try to see if it brings any additional relief or reduction in outbreaks for you. There is a lack of convincing evidence out there for using lysine to treat active HSV lesions. They found that daily doses of L-lysine less than 1 g were ineffective for preventing or treating HSV lesions, unless combined with low-arginine diets. However, doses exceeding 3 g per day seemed to improve patients' subjective experience of HSV. Here's the study on PubMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6419779/ Remember, everyone's experiences with triggers and treatments can vary, so what works for one person may not work the same way for another. It's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider about any changes you want to make to your treatment plan or to discuss potential triggers you've noticed. Ultimately, finding a balance that works for you in terms of sauna use, stress management, and any supplementary treatments can help you in your goal to reduce outbreaks and maintain your overall well-being. Wishing you all the best in your journey towards managing HSV-2 and finding the strategies that work best for you. Please do keep us updated on your progress and if you discover any helpful insights along the way. Take care and stay positive!

I'm thrilled to hear that SADBE has been working well for you and that your neuropathy is pretty much non-existent now. That's fantastic news! It's amazing how finding something that brings relief can greatly improve our quality of life and reduce the impact of HSV on our daily experiences. I appreciate your honest and balanced perspective on SADBE as an immunotherapy option. It's important to remember that everyone's response can vary, but the fact that you've found relief and a sense of normalcy is truly encouraging. Your mention of potential future treatments like Pretlivir or IM250 in combination with SADBE is intriguing. Who knows what advancements lie ahead in the quest for a functional cure? Please do keep us in the loop about your ongoing journey with SADBE. Sharing updates and insights can be invaluable to others who may be considering similar treatments or seeking relief from neuropathic pain.

Hey there! No need to feel silly. We're all in this together. Let's try to ease your worries. About prodrome symptoms and transmission risk: First off, prodrome symptoms can be sneaky. They might show up without actually leading to a full-blown outbreak. So prodrome symptoms alone don't necessarily mean you're more likely to transmit the virus. So, you've been on the acyclovir train and noticed those symptoms taking a backseat. That's a good sign! Acyclovir can work its magic by reducing viral shedding and the chances of passing the virus, even if an outbreak doesn't rear up. Now, let's talk about your unexpected sexual escapade. No judgments here! We're all adults, and we've all had our moments of spontaneous fun. The good news is that the risk of transmission during non-intercourse activities, like oral sex and manual stimulation, is generally lower than with full-blown intercourse. So, take a deep breath and let that sink in. I know the internet can be a wild jungle of conflicting information. It's like playing a game of "he said, she said" with a bunch of contradicting voices. But here's the deal: you're doing your best to take precautions, and that's what counts. Medication, communication, and using protection can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Everyone's experience with herpes is unique, and while it's helpful to hear from others, remember that your journey is yours alone. But know that many people have successfully managed their herpes diagnosis and maintained fulfilling relationships while keeping the transmission risk low. So keep that playful spirit alive, stay informed, and take care of yourself. If you have any more questions or need a listening ear, you know where to find us. We're here to support you through it all.

Perhaps most herpes transmission is asymptomatic, but I'd assume that most herpes transmission happens in general because of ignorance (refer back to that 80% of people who have herpes don't know they have it). So no, more to your thought: asymptomatic viral shedding doesn't necessarily lead to transmission. In other words, you're not going to automatically pass herpes to your partner every time you asymptomatically shed. If that was the case, then a vast majority of people in the world would have genital herpes.

Hey there @RI_HSV, I'm really glad you found our wonderful community too! We're here to support you through this journey and provide the knowledge and understanding you need. First of all, let me assure you that you're not alone in being diagnosed with HSV-1 without ever experiencing an outbreak. It's quite common, and many people have HSV-1 without even realizing it. As you mentioned, about 80-90% of the world's population has HSV-1, primarily orally. (And 80% of people who have herpes don't know they have it!) So, if you received your test results through a blood test, it won't be able to tell you whether the infection is oral or genital unless you have an outbreak. The important thing to remember is that whether you have HSV-1 orally or genitally, it's actually not as big of a deal as it may seem. Oral HSV-1 — innocently branded as "cold sores" — is incredibly common and doesn't carry the same social stigma as genital herpes (even thought it's basically the same virus!). In fact, most people with oral herpes contracted it during childhood, usually from a well-meaning relative or friend's innocent kiss. Regarding your questions, let's address them one by one: Determining the location of the virus and asymptomatic shedding: While there are research labs that conduct swab tests to determine shedding, it's not typically offered to the general public as a routine service. However, it's essential to keep in mind that regardless of the location of the virus, the risk of transmission when no outbreak is present is extremely low. HSV-1 shedding occurs primarily during outbreaks or in the presence of visible symptoms, so the chances of asymptomatic shedding are quite minimal. Download the free ebook and handouts that go into viral shedding rates of HSV-1 vs. HSV-2 oral vs. genital: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook Likelihood of infecting your ex-partner: It's difficult to determine the exact likelihood of transmission, especially without knowing if your ex-partner has HSV-1 or not. But ironically, the chances of your ex having HSV-1 anyway whether she ever met you or not is extremely high based on thos population numbers mentioned above. For the sake of reasoning this out, let's say you do have asymptomatic genital HSV-1 ... the risk of transmitting genital HSV-1 is relatively low (even lower shedding rates than if you have oral HSV-1 — again, see the handouts for more), especially considering that genital-to-genital transmission of HSV-1 is so rare. (In fact, a renowned herpes researcher, Terri Warren, told me she has never seen a case of genital-to-genital HSV-1 transmission in all her years of practice.) I understand that it's been a rough relationship, and you may not want to reach out to your ex-partner again. It's essential to focus on your own well-being and moving forward positively. Remember, you're not defined by your HSV-1 diagnosis. It's a common virus that doesn't have to negatively impact your life or relationships. This community is here to offer support, guidance, and a safe space to share anything you got. We've got your back! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here for you every step of the way. Keep your head up, stay strong, and remember that you're not alone in this journey!

Hey there @Vulcanus! I totally get that this whole HSV-2 situation can be frustrating and confusing, but let's try to shed some light on your concerns ... Let's talk about your specific concern about your girlfriend swallowing. I want to put your mind at ease — the virus is not present in semen. So, there's no need to worry about transmitting HSV-2 through that particular practice. And especially since you're asymptomatic so won't be engaging in risky activity during any outbreak, even asymptomatic viral shedding can't hitch a ride onto semen. It's only spread via skin-to-skin contact. Now, even when it comes to the risk of HSV-2 oral transmission through oral sex, let me give you some good news: The chances of passing HSV-2 orally are actually quite low. The majority of oral herpes cases (like 98-99%) are caused by HSV-1, not HSV-2. So, when it comes to oral sex, the risk of HSV-2 transmission is much lower than you might think. It's an important fact for you and your girlfriend to be aware of to make an informed decision about the risks/rewards of gettin' down. In fact, here's a gem of a video that you might applaud like our support group did when Dr. Leone answered the question "And what about oral?" https://youtu.be/QhrH5ifdE08?t=1176 And about getting re-tested with a Western Blot, the IGG type-specific test you had is generally reliable and accurate, but is known to have some false positives and false negatives. But like you said, with such a high number, re-testing may not provide you with significant new information in your case. Ultimately, the decision to engage in any sexual practices is a personal one, and it's all about open communication and mutual consent. If you and your girlfriend are comfortable with the idea and understand the low risk involved, then go ahead and enjoy the moment, my friend! I know it can be frustrating to sift through all the contradicting information out there, but rest assured that the specific activity you mentioned is unlikely to transmit HSV-2. Remember, communication and education are key in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. If you have any more questions or concerns, we're here to support you and provide the information you need to make informed decisions. You got this! Stay awesome and keep rocking those conversations with your girlfriend. Cheers!

Hey there, PhotoEagle! First off, congratulations on your relationship taking a deeper and more serious turn. That's such an exciting time, and it's wonderful to see your care and concern for your girlfriend. I understand that learning about her genital herpes diagnosis can be a lot to process, especially when considering the potential risks involved. However, it's important to know that over time, the body typically gains better control over the virus and the shedding of the virus decreases significantly. In the first year after an initial herpes infection, there tends to be more shedding as the immune system is still adjusting. But for the majority of healthy individuals, the body's immune response improves over time, providing more and more protection. And since it's been over 30 years for her, it's safe to say her body has it under control and her viral shedding should be much lower than someone who is newly diagnosed. (That's not to say that she'll never have outbreaks, but that the immune system is just doing a better job at keeping the virus at bay.) Like @AlliKat12, I want to assure you that it's entirely possible to be in a relationship with someone who has herpes and not contract the virus. Personally, I've been in a relationship with my wife since 2014, and we even made the decision to stop using protection while I continued to take daily suppressive therapy (Acyclovir). We now have a 6-year-old son, and my wife still does not have herpes. So, it's definitely possible to have a fulfilling relationship without transmitting the virus. Ironically, the biggest protection you have in this case is that she *knows* she has herpes and is aware of prodrome symptoms and can communicate with you if something feels "off" ... 80% of all people who have herpes don't know that they have it, which makes them the most likely to transmit the virus. That being said, it's important to acknowledge that there is still a small risk involved. However, as @AlliKat12 mentioned, the transmission rates are already quite low (especially for men), and with the added protection of antiviral medication and the use of condoms, the risk can be further reduced. In fact, if your girlfriend is on daily suppressive therapy and you use condoms, the risk of transmission to a penis is estimated to be around 1% per year. If you both decide not to use condoms, it would be around 2% per year of a risk for you. (To put that in perspective, there is a 2-15% chance of unintended pregnancy even when using condoms and a 1.8% chance of death whenever you're driving a car.) To help you better understand the details of transmission and the associated risks, I recommend downloading the free handouts available here: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook ... They break down the information and give you a clearer picture of what you're dealing with. Remember, communication and open dialogue with your partner are key. Discuss your concerns, ask questions, and make decisions together based on accurate information and what feels right for both of you. Wishing you all the best in your relationship journey. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further support. You've got this!

Hi @Geemmach, this is so common to have confusion and frustrations around how these tests are performed. By its very nature, it's confusing stuff! Let's try to unravel this together. HSV-1 and HSV-2 are indeed separate tests, and they specifically look for antibodies related to each type of herpes virus. From what you described, it seems that your partner's test results focused on HSV-2 specifically, which might explain why HSV-1 wasn't mentioned. And since you were swabbed and it came back positive for HSV-1, then he should have been tested for both. It could have been interpreted by his healthcare peeps that he was wanting to be tested for genital herpes, and most healthcare professionals (incorrectly) assume HSV-2 only (while over 50% of all new genital herpes cases are HSV-1). There's also the fact that most people in the world (70-90%) carry HSV-1, so clinics don't tend to test for it absent an outbreak since most people's blood tests would be coming back positive for HSV-1; this complicates things because you can't tell *where* HSV-1 shows up without an actual outbreak to locate the possible zone of transmission. Our western culture is also particularly odd because it calls genital HSV-1 or HSV-2 "genital herpes" (oooh, scary STD!) but if HSV-1 is in the oral region, it's only called harmless "cold sores" (when in reality, it's all the same, just in different regions). This is thanks to our culture's sexual shame in general, but that's a whole other conversation ... The best thing to do in this kind of situation is for both of you to get a Western Blot test for both HSV-1 and HSV-2. It's way more accurate than IgG without the potential of false positives/negatives. Here are details about how to get that set up: https://depts.washington.edu/herpes/pages/hsv_resources I hope this clarifies the situation for you both. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. Wishing you clarity, peace of mind, and continued strength!

Venting is absolutely welcome here, and I'm glad you found our lil sanctuary on the web. 🙂 You are among friends who understand what you're going through. It's natural to feel scared and unsure about the future, especially when it comes to disclosing your condition. The fear of judgment can be overwhelming. But let me assure you, you are not defined by your diagnosis. You are a beautiful, strong individual deserving of love and acceptance. I know it! And as @meMovingForward said so eloquently, many of us here have experienced similar emotions and challenges. It's comforting to know you're not alone in this journey. "Life-changing, but not life-ending." Absolutely! This is where our perspective is such a huge determiner for how this ends up impacting us, either for the worst or for the best, or anywhere in between. And this is where we take our power back. How you *choose* to see this situation, your life, yourself. While it may feel exhausting at times, I want you to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. You have already shown incredible strength by ending a relationship that no longer served you. Now it's time to focus on yourself, your well-being, and rediscovering your own worth and beauty. Remember, you are so much more than your diagnosis. You deserve happiness, love, and a fulfilling life. As you continue on this path, know that we are here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to vent, ask questions, or share your thoughts whenever you need. Together, we can navigate this journey and find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of self. Here are some videos you might be helpful: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/herpes-and-enacting-your-values https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/changing-your-unhelpful-patterns https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/letting-challenges-grow-you https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/transforming-shame-into-connection https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/risking-love https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/vulnerability-as-opportunity https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/others-dont-judge-you-like-you-judge-you https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/turning-suffering-into-courage-and-practicing-embodied-self-acceptance https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/the-cave-you-fear-to-enter-holds-the-treasure-that-you-seek Sending you virtual hugs and positive vibes!

Absolutely! Go you. 🙂 I'm so glad to hear you're taking real, courageous steps to move forward in your life. (And it's in your screen name to boot!)

I want to start by sending you a BIG virtual hug and letting you know that you are not alone in this journey. Your courage to share your story is commendable, and I truly admire your strength to keep moving forward despite the challenges you've faced. Please know that we're here to offer support, understanding, and a listening ear. (And yes, a complete lack of judgment! Just the opposite, actually. More like admiration and care.) First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the pain and betrayal you've experienced due to your husband's actions. It's tough to navigate such difficult circumstances, and your feelings of anger and hurt are fully valid and understandable. I can't imagine being in such a long-term relationship and being treated like you have been. I'm so, so sorry ... You don't deserve to be treated like that by anyone, especially the man who is supposed to care for you and nurture your heart. The impact of genital herpes on both physical and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. I understand your fear, depression, and the added health problems caused by the outbreaks. It's completely understandable that you feel hesitant and take precautions when it comes to intimate moments with your husband. I imagine you feeling trapped in this situation. And through it all, your focus on protecting yourself is important — you have the absolute right to set boundaries that make you feel safe and comfortable. I'm proud of you for taking the initiative to pursue your education and getting your Associate's degree. It's a significant accomplishment. It shows your resilience and determination. While job searching may bring its own set of challenges, remember that your worth and skills extend far beyond your work history! Your life experience and the knowledge gained from your degree can be valuable assets as you embark on this new chapter. Stay positive, remain persistent, and explore opportunities that align with your interests and strengths. Feeling isolated can intensify the emotional burden you carry. Even though you are physically distant from friends, please consider reaching out to online support groups or forums where you can connect with individuals who have similar experiences. (Which you're doing right now in this very post! Check!) 😉 Sharing your thoughts, fears, and triumphs with others who can relate may provide a sense of belonging and understanding. The painful outbreak you recently experienced can undoubtedly be disheartening, but please remember that flare-ups do not define you. There are treatments and coping strategies available to manage the symptoms and promote healing. I encourage you to explore options such as seeking medical advice, even if finances pose a challenge. Some healthcare providers offer sliding-scale fees or free services, and community resources may be available to help out. Recovering from such challenging circumstances takes time, patience, and self-compassion. While there may be no quick fix, taking small steps towards self-care and self-discovery can make a significant difference. In your day-to-day, weave in activities that bring you joy, practicing relaxation techniques, and nurturing your physical and emotional well-being. Remember, you are deserving of love, happiness, and a bright future. We are here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to share your thoughts, ask questions, or simply vent whenever you need to. Together, we can navigate this journey and find hope, strength, and healing. Thank you for your courage in showing up and speaking out. It's inspiring.

I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through it! Totally makes sense that you're feeling confused and frustrated, especially since you've had herpes for a long time and now this out of the blue. But don't give up! I'm glad you had the courage to reach out for help. That's huge. And you're right — herpes outbreaks do tend to recur in the same location on the body: Once the nerve pathway of choice has been established by the first outbreak, that becomes the "path of least resistance" from the spine to the surface of the skin for future outbreaks. It's important to note that spreading the infection to other parts of the body (also known as auto-inoculation) is rare unless there are specific factors affecting the immune system. Auto-inoculation only tends to happen close to when the initial infection occurs (before the body has time to build up immunity), so it's really odd if that's what this is a decade later. It's possible that there might be other factors at play in your situation that we won't be able to determine online. To get a clearer understanding of what's happening, I'd get a consult with a healthcare professional. They can swab these areas and specifically test to make sure the swabs show herpes. It may be a different kind of rash happening that isn't herpes-related at all, but a swab will be able to give you that super important data point. Keep us updated and stay positive!

I stumbled upon your post and couldn't help but reach out. Dealing with immune system challenges is no walk in the park, but you're showing incredible resilience in exploring different treatment options. I hope the GCMAF therapy, along with the other approaches you're trying, brings you the relief and immune support you're seeking. You've got this! Remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're here to support you every step of the way. Keep that positive mindset going and please keep us updated on how things progress. Sending you all the good vibes and wishing you a stronger immune system and improved health.

Yep, in most cases they are just plain old canker sores!

Hey there! Managing herpes outbreaks can be tricky, but keeping yourself healthy is certainly key. Your immune system plays a crucial role as the first line of defense of keeping herpes outbreaks at bay, so taking care of it is essential. Like you mentioned, good sleep, less stress, and a good diet work wonders right off the bat. Are you taking suppressive medication like Acyclovir or Valtrex? These meds can cut viral shedding and reduce outbreaks by about half. If not, it's worth discussing with your doctor to see if it's a good fit for you. Personally, I've been on daily suppressive therapy (Acyclovir) for years to protect my partner from herpes. I decided to see what would happen when I went off it for a bit (we weren't having sex after the birth of our baby, so it was a perfect time to test), and wouldn't you know it, I had an outbreak within a week! It could have been a timing fluke, but it seems that daily suppressive therapy works nicely for me. I totally understand your love for caffeine and instant coffee! Giving up our favorite vices can be tough. If you're hesitant about giving up caffeine entirely, you could try reducing your intake. (Or perhaps even ... decaf?) 😬 I eventually switched to decaf coffee because caffeinated coffee made me irritable and not fun to be around. It took me a while to realize (my wife made the connection for me) that some of my big "moods" were actually after I had a dose of caffeine! 🤦🏼‍♂️ While identifying triggers is important, keep in mind that they can vary from person to person. Stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods are common triggers, but it's a highly individual experience. Feel free to experiment with adjustments to find what works best for you. Stay positive and take care of yourself. Your well-being is the top priority! And what a convenient excuse to live a healthy lifestyle, right? 😄

Hey there! Welcome to the community, and thank you for reaching out. It takes a lot of courage to share your story, and I'm glad you found this space where you can find support and understanding. Breaking up with someone you cared about deeply is never easy, and it's completely normal to have mixed emotions afterwards. It's understandable that you may be feeling a sense of loneliness and questioning your decision. But remember, you made the choice based on what you felt was best for you in the long term. And trusting your gut is super important. Regarding the situation with your HSV2 diagnosis, it's difficult to say for sure whether your ex-partner has it or not. Coincidences can happen, and it's important to focus on taking care of yourself rather than dwelling on speculation. It's great that she accepted your status, but it's also crucial to be in a healthy relationship where both people are compatible and happy. Feeling uncertain about the future and the challenges of disclosure is completely understandable. It can feel daunting to navigate the dating scene with a herpes diagnosis. However, it's important to remember that having HSV2 does not define your worth or your ability to have fulfilling relationships. There are many understanding and accepting women out there who will see beyond the virus and appreciate you for who you are. Have you seen this video about casual sex with herpes? https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/casual-hookups-with-herpes And here are some others that might be helpful, too: Risking love: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/risking-love What rejection really says about you: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/what-does-herpes-rejection-really-say-about-you Taking time for yourself and being single can be a valuable opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. It allows you to focus on your own well-being, build confidence, and explore your interests and passions (which is how I met my wife ... on the dance floor ... after learning partner dancing while single). 😉 When you're ready to pursue casual sex or consider a future relationship, disclosure may feel challenging, but it's an important part of building trust and having informed consent. Have you read the e-book on disclosure yet? Here it is for free: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook Ultimately, your future is not defined solely by your herpes status. You have the power to shape your own path and create the life you want. It may take time and patience, but there are possibilities for meaningful connections and fulfilling experiences ahead. The key is to get out of your own way, drop the self-judgment and doubt, grab onto some good, old-fashioned hope and optimism. (I know on some level you already know this — it can sometimes feel like an internal fight between logic and emotions!) I'm glad you reached out for help, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to ask any more questions or share your thoughts. You're not alone, and together, we can navigate the challenges and embrace an awesome future.

Hey there! I totally get where you're coming from. Living in a middle-of-nowhere town without proper healthcare access can be a real challenge, but let's see if we can shed some light on your questions. First off, kudos to you for taking charge of your health and getting tested. It's important to stay informed and be proactive about these things. Now, let's talk about your HSV-1 antibody level. You mentioned it's at 43.00, which does sound pretty high. But don't worry, it doesn't necessarily mean you've had a recent outbreak or anything like that. It's important to note that HSV-1 is the herpes simplex virus commonly associated with oral herpes. It's known to cause cold sores or fever blisters, which typically appear on or around the lips. However, it can also cause sores inside the mouth, though this is less common. These oral herpes outbreaks can be painful and often recur in the same location. On the other hand, canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are different from oral herpes. They are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. Canker sores are not caused by the herpes virus and are not contagious. They can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or injury to the inside of your mouth. So, it's important to distinguish between the two. While oral herpes outbreaks are typically associated with cold sores and occur due to the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), canker sores are unrelated and have different triggers. Regarding your antibody level, everyone's body is different, and antibody levels can vary. A high level simply means that your immune system has mounted a strong defense against the HSV-1 virus. It shows that your body knows how to handle the virus and keep it in check. I understand that access to follow-up care is limited for you, but don't lose hope. Even if you can only go to an income-based clinic, they may still be able to offer some guidance and support, especially if you go in there with knowledge and a plan — for example, "I have a history of oral HSV-1, but I'm also getting ulcers inside my mouth. Could you please swab these ulcers in my mouth and test to see if they are HSV-1 so I can know for sure whether they are canker sores or herpes-related? I know it's rare to have oral HSV-1 outbreaks inside the mouth, but I would like to know for sure." It's always worth reaching out to see if they can help you navigate your specific situation. In the meantime, try not to stress too much about those antibody levels. Focus on taking care of yourself, practicing good oral hygiene, and managing any discomfort from those mouth sores. And remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're here to lend a listening ear and support you along the way. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to reach out. You got this, and we're here for you.

Beautiful and grounded perspective. Yes.

Yep, it's totally possible to have both HSV-1 and HSV-2 on your genitals. It may sound surprising since we often associate HSV-1 with oral herpes and HSV-2 with genital herpes. But the reality is that either type can show up in either location through oral-genital contact (although oral HSV-2 is much more rare; only 1-2% of all oral herpes cases are HSV-2). Our bodies don't really care about those traditional boundaries! Just remember that where the infection shows up is usually determined by the initial exposure location. But over time, subsequent transmission can lead to both types appearing in either area, although over time your body is also building up natural immunity, so it'll be harder to get new infections of one if you've already been building up antibodies for the other. If you suspect you might have both HSV-1 and HSV-2 on your genitals, it's a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional to get the area swabbed and get an accurate diagnosis. No matter which type or types you have, it's important to know that you can still live a fulfilling life. With medication, lifestyle adjustments, and open communication with your partners, you can manage and reduce the impact of the virus. Stay positive, stay informed, and remember that you're not alone in this journey!

Hey @Happygirl17, It sounds like you've been through a lot lately, and I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis. It's great that your partner has been supportive throughout all of this, even though it's natural to feel a little confused and uncertain about how this could have happened. It's true that herpes can be tricky and unpredictable, and it's not always easy to determine when or how someone was exposed. @AnnieO made a great point about not wanting to throw your partner under the bus or have it turned back on you. It's important to focus on moving forward together as a team, rather than getting bogged down in who might have given what to whom. As you navigate this new chapter in your relationship, remember to prioritize open communication and honesty. It's okay to have questions and concerns, and it's okay to seek out more information and support as needed. Just remember that you're not alone, and that with time and patience, you can both come out stronger on the other side. Sending positive vibes your way!

Hey there, @Beachgirl16! First off, kudos to you for disclosing to your partner. It takes a lot of courage to have that conversation, and I'm glad to hear he was understanding and appreciative of your honesty. I totally hear you about the waiting game being tough. It's hard not to let our minds wander and worry about all the worst-case scenarios. But as @AlliKat12 mentioned, it's important to remember that not everything we read online is accurate or reliable, and it's easy to get lost in the noise. The internet can be a wild and scary place, especially when it comes to medical information. And medical information that also has a layer of stigma/shame smeared on top? Oof, even worse. If you feel comfortable, you could suggest that your partner check out the handouts that come with the free e-book or other reputable sources for more accurate and trustworthy information about herpes. Or, he could even talk to a healthcare provider who can provide more personalized and accurate information. That way, he can make an informed decision based on facts rather than fear and stigma. But keep in mind that even all healthcare providers are not created equal; I've heard plenty of horror stories of even healthcare providers being shamey/judgy about herpes and/or giving outright false info (e.g., "You don't need to disclose since you can't pass herpes unless you're having an outbreak" being the most popular of the false claims that too many doctors still think is true). *smh* In the meantime, try to focus on taking care of yourself and practicing self-compassion. And worst-case scenario, if it ends up being a "no thank you" ... Rejection can be a tough pill to swallow, especially when it feels like we can't control the situation. But remember, rejection isn't always about us as individuals. It's possible that your partner may be rejecting the idea of herpes, not you personally. Just like how people have different preferences when it comes to dating, such as smoking or having children or bad debt or eating with your mouth open (there's a longer list, I'm sure of it) 😆 they may also have preferences when it comes to the risk of getting herpes. It's important to accept and respect their decision, whatever it may be, without harboring any resentment. I've always chosen to see it as trusting that on some level it just wasn't meant to be. And if your partner does decide that they're not comfortable with the idea of dating someone with herpes, remember that it doesn't mean the end of the world or the end of your dating life. There are plenty of people out there who are open and accepting, and who won't let a common virus get in the way of a meaningful connection. Keep your head up and keep being your awesome self, and the right person will come along when the time is right. Wishing you all the best!

Sorry for the late reply @Meerkat_7! 🙏 And I'm sorry you're feeling overwhelmed and confused — totally understandable, though! We've certainly all been there in our own personal versions of overwhelmed and confused, so you're in good company. 😉 It's important to note that while testing positive for one STD can affect the accuracy of other test results, the herpes IgG test is generally considered to be pretty reliable. However, false positives can happen, especially when the index value is just slightly above the cutoff point. It's great that you're already taking medicine for the chlamydia and addressing that issue. As for the herpes diagnosis, it's important to confirm the results with a follow-up test to rule out any potential false positives. I know waiting until May 15th (now just a few days away) may have felt like an eternity, but try not to let it consume you. Stress can often exacerbate symptoms and make things feel worse. It's also important to have open and honest communication with your partner. While it's possible to transmit herpes even without visible symptoms, it's still a good idea to discuss the situation and decide together how to proceed with any sexual activity. Remember, herpes is very common and manageable, and it doesn't have to define your life or your relationships. In the meantime, take care of yourself and focus on self-care. Eat nourishing foods, stay hydrated, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Don't hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. You got this!