mr_hopp

First off, big kudos to you for sharing your journey with such openness and detail. It's not easy, especially when you're dealing with something as frustrating and mysterious as cold sores. The sensation you're feeling around 30 minutes after taking the Valacyclovir (the heat/burning) isn't uncommon. It could be your body's way of reacting to the medication as it gears up to fight the virus. Medications like Valacyclovir aim to suppress the herpes virus and can sometimes trigger sensations like this. The switch from thinking it's cold sores to potentially being shingles is interesting. Both are caused by different strains of the same family of viruses, and they can sometimes have overlapping symptoms. It's not unheard of for someone to have both at the same time, although that's relatively rare. Going forward, seeing a dermatologist is a good call. They can provide a closer examination and perhaps more clarity on what's been happening. Keep following your healthcare provider's advice and let the medication do its thing. Remember, you're not alone in this. Many people deal with similar situations. Stay positive, and I hope your upcoming appointments provide the answers you're looking for. Here's to getting things back to normal!

Hey there, @sunshine367! No worries, no judgment here. This is a safe space to share, and it takes a lot of courage to share as you have. So kudos to you. I can totally understand how this situation can feel incredibly confusing and frustrating. First and foremost, remember that you're not alone in dealing with this. Many people have faced similar uncertainties when it comes to herpes, and it can indeed be a puzzle. As @AlliKat12 mentioned, herpes can sometimes be asymptomatic, meaning people may carry the virus without even knowing it. This adds an extra layer of complexity to figuring out the source of infection. It's also possible for the virus to remain dormant for years and then manifest with symptoms much later. In your situation, considering the close timeline between your encounters, it might seem like a rapid transmission, but the reality is that herpes transmission dynamics can be unpredictable. Asymptomatic shedding can occur at any time, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact moment of transmission. The most important steps now are to focus on your health and well-being and to disclose your diagnosis to any current or future partners. Knowledge and open communication are key to informed decisions regarding sexual health. The H Opp ebook will help get you kickstarted on how to disclose in a different, connecting way: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook Remember, this virus doesn't define you, and with time, you'll gain more clarity about your own situation. In the meantime, try not to get too caught up in the "whodunit" aspect of this puzzle, as it may remain unsolved. What's essential is that you're taking proactive steps to manage your health and make responsible choices in your intimate relationships.

Hey there @sunshine367, Sorry for the late response, our whole family is just getting over our first bout of Covid. Oof! I can understand your concerns about how herpes can be transmitted, especially when you're still getting familiar with how HSV1 and HSV2 work. It's great that you're seeking information and clarity. As @AlliKat12 mentioned, HSV2 typically prefers the genital area, and it's quite rare for initial outbreaks to occur on hands or fingers. Plus, the virus doesn't tend to thrive on skin surfaces like the hands. It's more commonly transmitted through direct genital-to-genital contact or genital-to-mouth contact (more warm mucous membranes), especially during outbreaks or asymptomatic shedding. HSV1 is often associated with oral cold sores, but it can also infect the genital area through oral-genital contact during an active outbreak or asymptomatic shedding. (More than 50% of all new genital herpes cases are HSV-1, transmitted via oral sex when the giving partner had an oral outbreak and went down on their partner.) When it comes to transmission, while it's important to be cautious, the chances of spreading the virus are relatively low, especially when you take preventive measures like using protection and avoiding contact during active outbreaks. For a detailed breakdown on transmission rates based on outbreak location and type of herpes, get the free ebook & handouts here: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook Seeking knowledge and understanding about herpes is a great step toward managing it and making informed choices in your relationships. Feel free to ask more questions or share any concerns you have; this community is here to support you. You're not alone in this journey!

@AlliKat12 is spot on. If you don't have oral herpes, then you're good to go with all the kissing that you want without risk of transmission. 🙂 Herpes tends to stay in the area where your primary infection was and doesn't tend to travel.

Hi @mz.bigred Sorry for the late response, our whole family is just getting over our first bout of Covid. Oof! Finding out you have genital herpes can be incredibly daunting and emotionally challenging. I'm glad you recognize that having herpes doesn't define your worth. You're absolutely right; you are not disgusting, dirty, or worthless because of this. (And thanks for your awesome response, @AlliKat12! Great advice.) 👌 When it comes to love, trust, and relationships, it's perfectly natural to have concerns, especially considering your past experiences. Take your time, and don't rush into anything. Your health and well-being are top priorities, and the right person will understand and accept you for who you are, herpes and all. In the meantime, focusing on yourself and your daughter is a fantastic approach. Self-care and self-love are foundations for any successful relationship, and they will help attract the right kind of love into your life. Whenever you're ready, feel free to share more. We're here to support you through this. Take good care of yourself.

Hey @bingus1000, good to see you again. Did you look into getting a Western Blot like I mentioned in your last post? That's going to be the definitive test for you to get the answers you're seeking. 1.62 is still considered in the low positive range, so it can't be counted out. IgG results can be pretty confusing/frustrating with a lot of gray area for interpretation. And they're rife with false negatives/positives. And about the Valtrex, it's pretty well-tolerated for most folks, so you should be good to take it if it helps ease your mind in this middle ground as you seek out a definitive test result, but ask your doc to make sure.

The risk of contracting herpes from the scenario you described is extremely low. Facial herpes (typically caused by HSV-1) is typically transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, like kissing or oral sex with someone who has a history of herpes outbreaks in that area. In your case, you had a lap dance where the dancer's breast briefly touched your face. This kind of contact is not a common way for herpes to spread. And herpes outbreaks rarely happen on the breasts (the skin is too thick to accommodate a herpes outbreak). Plus, the appearance of a small bump on your lower lip without any other symptoms doesn't necessarily indicate a herpes outbreak. Many things can cause minor skin irritations or bumps. However, if you're concerned or the bump persists, you can get the bump swabbed and PCR tested to help put your mind at ease. But based on what you've described, the likelihood of contracting facial herpes from this encounter seems very low.

Hey @afraidofheights, I can feel how tough things have been for you since your diagnosis, and I'm really sorry to hear that. It sounds like you've been through a lot, and dealing with herpes can be a real rollercoaster of emotions. First off, let me reassure you about something: Herpes generally doesn't spread to different parts of your own body by touch alone, especially not in the way you're describing. The virus usually stays where it initially entered. So, while those bumps on your hands and feet are definitely concerning, there's a big chance they might not be related to the herpes on your genitals at all. And yes, whitlow is a thing, but the reason it's rare is that the way it's spread tends to be the perfect storm of touching an open herpes outbreak (the liquid inside) with a place on your finger that has cut/abrasion before your body has built up immunity to the virus. Even then, herpes really doesn't prefer to be on the fingers or anywhere with non-mucous membranes. It prefers moist, warm places, which is why the vast majority of herpes outbreaks happen on the genitals and mouth. So even in the slight chance that you have whitlow, the chances of recurrences are very low. Now, about those bumps, you mentioned a history of rashes and sensitivity to certain things like fragranced soaps and grass. That's a valuable clue. It's possible that these new developments could be linked to some kind of skin sensitivity or stress-induced reaction, especially given the tough times you've been going through. Stress can do some pretty weird stuff to our bodies. I also want to say that the shame and fear you're feeling are completely valid emotions, but they don't define who you are. Having herpes doesn't diminish your worth or your ability to connect with others. It's more common than you might think, and there are understanding and compassionate people out there who won't judge you for it. Regarding intimacy, you're absolutely right. There are countless ways to connect with someone you care about that don't involve penetration. Holding hands, cuddling, and sharing deep emotional connections can be just as fulfilling. But also sex. Sex itself still carries a low risk of transmission to your partner. (See the free handouts with the ebook for all those details.) So please keep all of this in perspective and don't let the anxiety freight train run off with your mind. It's totally on the table to have an incredibly fulfilling sex life with a partner. Herpes doesn't take that away from you. For now, hang in there, and please try to see a healthcare professional when you can. They can provide you with the best guidance and support tailored to your specific situation. In the meantime, focus on self-care, stress management, and remember that there's a community here to lend an understanding ear. You've got the strength to navigate this journey and find happiness and connection along the way.

@Angelinc What??? Sorry, I misread your post at first. That makes me so angry. Definitely get a new doctor. You deserve to be treated, not minimized. You should have immediately been put in a regimen to help treat your first outbreak (which is a larger dose than episodic or daily suppressive treatment). That would have drastically shortened healing time and lessened the pain you've been going through. I'm so sorry. You deserve so much better. I understand your concerns about returning to work while still experiencing such discomfort. It's essential to prioritize your health and well-being, so if it's possible, consider having an open conversation with your employer or HR department about your situation. They might be able to offer some accommodations to help you during this time. That's what they are there for. Also, remember that the first outbreak is typically the most severe, as your body is still building up some level of immunity. It can take a while to heal completely. Over time, outbreaks tend to become less frequent and less severe for most people. While you're dealing with the physical symptoms, it's also essential to continue taking care of your mental health. A herpes diagnosis can bring a lot of emotional challenges, and it's okay to seek support in that area too, whether from friends, family, or a mental health professional. I also provide one-on-one coaching.

Hello @Angelinc, I'm really sorry to hear about the tough time you've been having recently. Getting herpes can be hard, especially when it brings symptoms like yours. It's a lot to handle both physically and emotionally for sure! We can all relate in our own ways. And I completely understand that when you're in such discomfort, you might start searching for anything that promises relief, even if it sounds too good to be true. But it's vital to approach these things carefully, especially when it comes to products or websites claiming to have a "cure" for herpes. Right now, there's no known cure for herpes, and many of these promises turn out to be scams or unproven treatments. Even if it comes with a "guarantee" you really don't know what you're putting in your body. Stick to what your healthcare provider has advised for managing your current outbreak. Things like rest, good hygiene, and any prescribed medications or creams can help with discomfort. Remember that for the majority of folks, their first outbreak is by far the worst. Over time, herpes outbreaks become less frequent, especially with genital HSV-1. The viral shedding tends to be lower, which means fewer outbreaks overall. So while this might feel overwhelming now, there's hope that things will improve with time and proper care.

Hi @dd123 Thanks for sharing your experience with TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) as a potential way to manage herpes outbreaks. It's really intriguing to explore different methods for dealing with herpes and its related symptoms. There's a study from 2015, "Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for chronic post-herpetic neuralgia," which delves into the use of TENS, but there's a slight twist. TENS is typically used to manage chronic pain conditions like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), often associated with shingles (a different virus than genital herpes, HSV-2). PHN can bring persistent and sometimes severe pain to areas previously affected by shingles. The study demonstrated some promise in reducing pain for PHN patients, suggesting the potential of TENS in managing specific herpes-related complications. However, it's important to note that while genital herpes and shingles are distinct conditions, they might share a common viral origin. Before considering any experimental alternatives, I'd strongly advise you to have a conversation with your trusted healthcare professional. They can provide you with personalized guidance and explore various strategies for managing both the virus and any associated symptoms.

Hey there @Milkofamnesia, (great screen name, by the way!) I can totally feel your frustration, and I appreciate you reaching out to share! Dealing with recurrent infections on top of managing herpes can definitely feel like a never-ending cycle of frustration and discomfort. It's great that you're already taking proactive steps to manage your vaginal health with probiotics, proper hygiene practices, and even seeking treatment. It sounds like you've been thorough! It's important to know that herpes, like any virus, can influence your body's overall immune response, which might in turn affect your susceptibility to other infections. PSA: Although I don't have a vagina, my wife does. And she has had similar issues, and she doesn't even have herpes, so it's hard to pinpoint what's what when there are so many inputs to consider. If your current doctor is struggling to provide effective prevention strategies, seeking a consultation with a specialist might be a good idea. Infectious disease specialists or gynecologists who have experience with herpes and related infections might offer fresh insights. Terri Warren is a great medical-related resource. It's unfortunate that some people in healthcare might still harbor stigma around herpes. Remember that you're not alone in this journey, and there are many understanding healthcare professionals out there who can provide the care you need without judgment. If you get any ounce of judgment, move on. There are plenty of great, understanding folks out there to choose from. Strengthening your immune system can potentially reduce the frequency of outbreaks and other infections. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and managing stress can all contribute to overall immune health. They're all the basics that we already know, but they're your first line of defense to give your body the support it needs to help keep you healthy. Remember, you're doing your best to manage your health, and it's okay to ask for help when needed. Keep advocating for yourself, and don't hesitate to explore different avenues of care until you find the solution that brings you relief. You're stronger than you think, and your determination to seek answers speaks volumes about your resilience. Hang in there!

@Montana Skies (It's all good! Bring your negativity, we've all been there, so you're in good company. 😆 Just be open to seeing things positively, too!) "I'm so happy I got herpes! Yay!" — Said no one, ever. I totally get it! On its face, it doesn't make any sense to call herpes an opportunity. An affront to supposed common sense, right? I'm with you, two decades ago I certainly wouldn't have called it that (and I would have gotten very upset at anyone who might have insinuated anything of the sort!). I got herpes from my then-girlfriend who cheated on me with her ex over Christmas holiday. So I also understand the anger and the feelings of unfairness that we have to disclose when we never got that common courtesy to make our own decision to take the risk or not. (I once got an email from someone saying "It's not an opportunity!" if you'd like to read a more in-depth response to that.) But here's what I've come to realize: It isn't reeeally about herpes. Herpes can be a powerful catalyst for cultivating our self-confidence, our self-acceptance, embracing our vulnerability (and finding others who will do the same). And the biggest payback to the person who was dishonest with us is to be a better person, to feel the goodness that comes with disclosing (flip it from it feeling like a burden to feeling empowering). So yes, there is a physical/medical part of this, but there is also a much bigger emotional/perspective piece, and that is the piece that is ironically the most painful to most people. It's the behind-the-scenes stuff that runs over and over through our heads. And the great news here is that you have control over that perspective; you have control over how you see yourself and how you feel about being a person who has herpes. Does having herpes mean you're dirty, unwanted, a castaway, unlovable, etc.? Or does it mean that you are someone who does the right thing even when it's difficult, someone who is considerate, honest, authentic and real? We get to create the meaning. Not society. Not the stigma. You decide for yourself, then act accordingly. (This perspective shift is what the free e-book is all about.) And here's the kicker: Dating only others with herpes is a form of pre-rejecting yourself. You're cutting down your viable dating pool to only a small fraction of what it actually is. All those fish in the sea becomes a teeny tiny puddle (roughly 2% of the eligible dating population — I crunched the numbers). And it's all based on the premise that you'll probably be rejected anyway by those who don't have herpes, so why bother, right? But that couldn't be further from the truth. So much of whether you are "accepted" or "rejected" is either 1) that it's not meant to be anyway and we aren't a good match or 2) you smuggle in unfair judgments about yourself and what having herpes means, so you paint the situation in a negative light and create an unfortunate self-fulfilling prophecy (in short, you think and act as if they'll reject you anyway, so they do). Read this article for more on that: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/herpes-dating-sites So yeah, it's not about herpes itself being the opportunity; it's about who you are in the face of life's challenges. You are your opportunity. We don't celebrate herpes; we celebrate you! We celebrate how you choose to let this define you, how your challenges can help mold you into a better you ... and the courage and strength that takes. Just to put this in perspective and bring it full circle, the day I disclosed to the woman who is now my wife (and mother of our 6-year-old) was a beautiful day of connection and vulnerability in both directions. It was a step in us falling deeply in love. It didn't feel like a burden. And it wasn't about herpes. It was about us being human together, and all the beauty that vulnerability and authenticity can bring.

Hey @very_obvious_throwaway I'm really glad you found the responses helpful. It's true, herpes can sometimes take unexpected turns, and understanding that outbreaks in new locations are often related to the same infection expressing itself along nerve pathways can help make sense of it. And hey, knowing the nuances doesn't necessarily make it better or worse, just a bit more understandable! I hear you about feeling down – it's completely understandable. Dealing with frequent outbreaks can be incredibly frustrating, and it makes sense that it's affecting your outlook. It's okay to have moments of doubt and frustration. And remember, everyone's journey with herpes is unique, and timelines for improvements can vary a lot. As for the impact on your sex life, that's a tough one. It sounds like you and your partner are really understanding of each other's needs and limitations. While things might not be as spontaneous as you'd like, your connection and intimacy are clearly strong, which is amazing. And it's okay to not want to take daily antivirals if they're not giving you the results you'd hope for. And if you'd like to give it another go, you might try a different antiviral to see if it works better for your body. It's true that averages don't tell the whole story. While some folks do experience decreasing severity and frequency of outbreaks, it doesn't mean that everyone follows the same pattern. Your frustration and doubts are completely valid reactions. But — and this is important — it doesn't mean there won't be better times ahead or that new solutions won't emerge. Sometimes it does take longer for certain immune systems to catch up and keep the virus more at bay. And medical research is always evolving, so who knows what might be on the horizon. Keep reaching out, keep sharing your feelings, and keep taking care of yourself. You're not alone in this journey, and while it might feel tough right now, remember that your experience is just a part of your bigger story. Feel free to ramble here anytime – sometimes getting those thoughts out can help ease the weight.

Hi there @Tj081999, I totally get how those test results might have thrown you for a loop! This is a confusing and frustrating space for many with no clear answers. So, in your first test back on 6-22-23, your HSV-2 IGG result was 1.21. Now, that falls in the range of 0.90-1.09, which is kind of like a gray area — not super positive, not definitively negative. That's probably why they marked it as equivocal. Now, fast forward to the second test on 8-17-23, and your HSV-2 IGG result was <0.2, which is squarely in the negative zone. This suggests that at that point, they couldn't detect any HSV-2 antibodies in your system. At first glance, it might seem like a head-scratcher. But test results can be influenced by all sorts of things ... the sensitivity of the test, the antibodies hanging out in your system, and even how the lab does its magic. And the IgG test specifically is known for its false negatives/positives, so it's not one I recommend for definitive results (even though it's the most popular one out there, go figure). So you might want to consider going for a Western Blot test. It's the gold standard for herpes blood tests. Sometimes, testing can be a bit tricky to pin down, and the Western Blot is pretty darn good at sorting through the confusion.

Hey @Gypsy86! Congratulations on your long-distance relationship! It's great that you're being proactive about managing your situation. Considering your recent experience, it's definitely a good idea to discuss your situation with your doctor. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and the specifics of your relationship. @BallroomD's suggestion of using lube is important too, as it can indeed help reduce friction and potential triggers. As for doubling up on antivirals before meeting up, that's something your doctor would be best equipped to give details on. It might depend on your individual situation, outbreak frequency, and the medication you're taking. I haven't heard of any specific studies that look at using a short regimen of medicine before a sexual encounter to decrease the potential of having an outbreak. The only ones I'm aware of is either episodic (to treat actual current outbreaks) or daily suppressive therapy (for asymptomatic viral shedding). There is this interesting study that did find that a shorter regimen is effective in treating actual outbreaks: Two-Day Regimen of Acyclovir for Treatment of Recurrent Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection ... Participants took 800 mg of acyclovir by mouth three times daily for two days. This shorter treatment significantly reduced the duration of lesions, symptoms, and viral shedding compared to a placebo. But it's hard to say if this would port over to answering your specific question. Again, this is doctor territory. 😉 It's clear that you're approaching this with care and responsibility, and that's awesome. Keep the lines of communication open with both your doctor and your partner – this teamwork will contribute to a safer and more comfortable journey. Wishing you all the best in your relationship! Bravo!

It's a smart question considering how vaccines can mess with our immune system in unexpected ways. This NIH article "COVID-19 infection and vaccines: potential triggers of Herpesviridae reactivation" explains that vaccines, while well-tested, can cause responses beyond their intended targets, which might affect conditions like HSV2. So, your concern is valid. Remember, vaccines affect people differently. Some say their HSV2 outbreaks increased after the vaccine, others say they saw no change, and some even noticed a decrease. As for your choice not to get the vaccine, that's a personal decision and it's important to make choices that align with your comfort level and health considerations. Keep in mind that everyone's body reacts uniquely, so staying open to various possibilities is a good call. Thanks for the question!

Hey there @protacotaster, It's quite the journey you've been on (it's been a similar length of time for me, too!), and it's impressive how in tune you've become with your body's signals. It sounds like you've mastered the art of recognizing the prodrome phase and being ready for what comes next. The way you describe it, it's like a script your body follows, though with some improvisations each time – poor sleep, fatigue, the whole emotional rollercoaster. And then that burning sensation, like a not-so-welcome encore, making its way down your legs and ending in that pinch while you pee. It's like your body's way of giving you the heads-up, "Hey, here comes the main event." It's understandable that the outbreak itself might bring a sense of closure, like the final scene of a play. You're right, it's almost like your body's way of saying, "Okay, the show's over, we've done our thing." Keep being a pro at deciphering the clues your body gives you. It's amazing how adaptable and resilient we become in the face of challenges. And hey, thank you for sharing your experience here – it's an eye-opener for many, a glimpse into the intricate dance between our bodies and this virus. Wishing you all the best in navigating these phases and finding your own unique ways to handle the drama. Stay strong and keep those positive vibes flowing! 🌞💪

Hey there @MangoMan, I can definitely understand how this situation might be causing some confusion and concern — sounds frustrating! It's good to hear that suppressive therapy with Valtrex has helped with reducing your outbreaks and providing some relief for your mental health. The rashes you're experiencing under the foreskin are a bit perplexing, especially since they've persisted even after starting the suppressive therapy. HSV-2 outbreaks can vary in presentation, and sometimes they might not follow the typical blister pattern. The inflammation and rash you're describing might be associated with your HSV-2. The immune response to the virus can cause various skin reactions. However, considering the history of a fungal infection and the fact that the rashes started after it, it's not entirely out of the realm of possibility that there could be some residual effect. Fungal infections can sometimes be stubborn and might require more than one course of treatment to fully clear up. It's great that you're in communication with your GP about this. If your current treatment plan doesn't seem to be addressing these rashes, it might be worth discussing further investigations or even consulting a specialist. At the very least, get the area swabbed and PCR tested when you're seeing the rash present. That will give you another useful datapoint to work with. Here's to hoping for some clarity and relief soon, brother! 👊

Hey there @bingus1000, First things first, I'm not a doctor, but I can give you some thoughts based on your situation. It sounds like you've been through a bit of a rollercoaster with your test results — it's a common confusion! The numbers you've mentioned are the IgG index values from your blood tests, which can sometimes lead to uncertainty, especially when they're hovering around the equivocal range. I would highly suggest your supplemental blood test be with the Western Blot since that is the gold standard of herpes blood testing. It costs a couple hundred bucks, but it's worth it for peace of mind. The negative supplemental test is a positive sign, but considering your consistent concern and desire for clarity, it's not unreasonable to explore further testing. While it's possible that you had a genital infection of HSV-1, without a swab test during an active outbreak, it's hard to definitively determine the type. Regarding disclosure, you've already demonstrated a lot of responsibility by keeping your partners informed about the uncertainty of your situation. That's an ethical and considerate approach, which shows that you're taking their health into consideration. Ultimately, the decision to continue disclosing would depend on your comfort level and how much clarity you want. If a more conclusive test helps you feel more at ease, it might also help in making your disclosure decisions moving forward. Remember, this situation is complex, and it's okay to seek more information to put your mind at ease. Hang in there, and hopefully, you'll get the answers you're seeking soon.

Hey there @Virgeaux, I hear you, and I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling this way. The diagnosis can hit hard, especially when it's unexpected. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and pissed off at the world. But remember, you're still you. Herpes doesn't define who you are or your worth. You're the one who gets to do that. It's good to see that you're taking steps to engage with your surroundings, like hitting the gym and redecorating your room with your mom and sister. These activities might seem small, but they can be powerful in helping you reclaim a sense of control and normalcy. And talking to your mom and sister about your diagnosis is a brave move – their support will certainly mean a lot during this time. Feeling like you've cut everyone off is a common response (like no one else really understands, right?), but remember that you don't have to carry this alone. Connecting with others who are going through or have gone through similar experiences can provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding that's hard to find elsewhere. I myself was gobsmacked when I started talking to close friends about it more openly and they would open up to me about hard, shameful things going on in their lives that they had been hiding from me. It brought us all closer together. As human beings. It just normalized the truth that everyone suffers in their own way, and everyone feels so alone in their own way. As for your emotions, it's absolutely okay to feel all that you're feeling. Grieving the life you thought you had is a process, and it's important to give yourself the time and space to do so. Confidence and self-love might feel distant now, but they're not gone forever. They might look a bit different now, but they're still there, waiting for you to rediscover. In fact, as ironic and backwards as it may seem now, the time after my herpes diagnosis (after my own dark storm cloud eventually blew over) was filled with more love and joy than I had even before my diagnosis. Because I was forced to look deeper. You're stronger than you might think. It takes time to adjust, but you'll find your way through this. And that dark cloud you're feeling? It might seem like it's here to stay, but clouds do move on. It's in their nature. It's weather. Reach out to others who understand, seek professional guidance if needed, and remember that you're not defined by a virus. You've got this – one step at a time. Sending you a virtual hug!

Hi @Tj081999, great that you want to confirm via Western Blot; it's not uncommon for IGG tests to occasionally show false positives or negatives, especially around the borderline range like 1.21. The Western Blot is considered the gold standard for herpes testing, so it should provide you with a clearer picture of your status, especially since you're past the requisite 12-week mark post exposure. Since you got the kit through Terri, be sure to follow her instructions and you should be good. Usually, the lab should be familiar with the process of drawing the sample for the Western Blot, but it doesn't hurt to give them a call beforehand to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here is a helpful page that goes over all the technical details for the lab that will be doing the blood draw: https://testguide.labmed.uw.edu/view/HSWB?tabs=no Let us know how it goes!

Hey there, @pbw_9! First of all, congrats on your sweet sweet baby! And kudos for being proactive and seeking answers. It's completely natural to be concerned, especially when you're experiencing new sensations. (That momma bear is in full effect!) HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, but it can also cause genital infections, but that only tends to happen through oral-genital contact (aka oral sex when the partner has cold sores and goes down on their partner). However, the symptoms you're describing might not necessarily point directly to a genital HSV-1 infection. Burning sensations can be caused by various factors, including hormonal changes after childbirth, dryness, or even stress. Also, if you've had HSV-1 for 13 years, your body has built up plenty of antibodies for it to not spread orally to genitally. Auto-inoculation (spreading herpes from one part of your body to another) generally only happens with those who have weak immune systems or in the window of time where the body hasn't had enough time to develop antibodies to keep the virus under control. The tingling sensation around your mouth might have triggered a bit of a scare, and it's good that you stopped taking Lysine when you noticed the side effects. Sometimes, our bodies can react differently to supplements. Regarding the burning pelvic pain, have you checked in with your doc about it? It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if the pain persists. They can help determine the cause and provide appropriate guidance. Lastly, I'd advise against relying on Dr. Google – it can often lead to unnecessary worry. It's still the wild wild west out there! 😆 Keep your spirits up, and remember that seeking medical guidance is the best step forward. If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out. You got this!

You're welcome, and I appreciate your kind words! Regarding your question, the neuropathy you're experiencing might not necessarily indicate active herpes. Neuropathy can be a lingering effect from previous outbreaks, but herpes-related neuropathy is rare for most people as far as I understand. However, it's always a good idea to stay cautious, especially when it comes to sexual activity. Even if the virus isn't actively shedding (which can for the most part be asymptomatic), there's still a possibility of transmission. For specific transmission rates depending on strain/location, see the free ebook and handouts here: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/lp/ebook Remember, herpes can be quite unpredictable, and symptoms or sensations like neuropathy can vary widely from person to person. It's always a good practice to err on the side of caution when it comes to intimacy. In general, it's always helpful to have an open conversation with your partner about your situation, so you can both make informed decisions about how to keep your partner safe. It's a responsibility that both of you share to be on the same page about. Keep up the positivity and stay informed – that's half the battle right there!

Not an overshare at all, @Rob72723! I've just been super busy and missed it, my apologies. 🙏 Navigating the ethical waters of disclosing can be a bit murky. It sounds like you're treading thoughtfully, and that's what counts. When it comes to HSV-1, it's true that a huge chunk of the population has it (anywhere between 47-80%, depending on which reliable source you pull from). Cold sores, yup, they're not exactly a rarity. Now, disclosing to past partners is a whole different story. If you suspect she might have given it to you, well, it's a bit of a maze. It's a personal call, really. 16 months down the line from a breakup – that's a hefty chunk of time. And reopening old wounds could be a can of worms. However, if she's blissfully unaware that she could pass this virus to future partners, it could be seen as a civic duty to at least educate her on that point. I'd say, consider these: How sure are you about her having it, and how certain are you that she's the one who gave it to you? How might this disclosure impact her, considering the past breakup? Would it provide clarity or just stir up negative vibes? But hey, Terri's advice on disclosing sounds pretty practical. If you do decide to do it, maybe framing it as "I might have had something going on down there, but I can't be entirely sure" could be the middle ground. The key is being open, honest, and respectful. Because hey, that's the kind of relationship you ultimately want to have, right?