Hello everyone! I am new to this forum and I'm hoping everyone's combined experience and knowledge can help me come to a conclusion in my current situation. I met a girl who matches me very well, more so than any other partner I've had by far. I felt a connection instantly to this girl. After talking, we met for a few dates to get to know each other better. On the third date however, she has a cold sore. Via previous communications between us, I knew I could be direct with this girl so I asked her about it and she informed me that she's had them since she was a child and thought nothing of it aside from "don't kiss anyone when it's present." I've always made it a point to take the extra precautions regarding my health, especially sexual health. I use to be so paranoid that I would lose sleep over razor burn or an irritation from a condom. Now I'm faced with a situation that could cost me either my health or potentially my soul mate. I've done extensive research, I've read the percentages and such and even went through day after our third date to get tested for hsv1 and 2 antibodies to see if I had been exposed in past relationships and was asynptomatic so moving forward with this girl would be a non issue. I'm torn because everything I'm reading is essentially saying make sure she takes an antiviral (which she isn't, she's lived pretty ignorantly regarding this condition or so it seems) and pray for the best. Is it even possible to be in a relationship with someone carrying the virus and live happily and normally without getting exposed or should I just make out with her on an outbreak and get it over with? And if I choose to make the commitment, which essentially would be like marriage to me and it doesn't work out, then I'm single, in my mid 30s with the stigma of herpes that could have been avoided.
Any first hand experience or knowledge regarding this situation you all may have will be greatly appreciated!
Thank you in advance!
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