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Hey everyone! I am a 22 year and have been living with genital herpes for just over a year. I am currently conducting my graduate student research at Clark University on how a genital herpes (HSV) diagnosis affects an individual’s life. I believe it is urgent that we make spaces for more open, honest dialogue about this common virus. The sinking feeling that often accompanies a diagnosis of genital herpes rarely results from the physical effect the virus causes on the body. Instead it stems from the ingrained stigma associated with a sexually transmitted infection. It is for this reason that I am conducting my graduate student research on the relationship between genital herpes partner communication and sexual self-esteem. Please visit my site for information about how to get involved and for resources regarding sexual health: http://www.thefulldisclosureproject.wordpress.com Let’s break down this stigma together. If you are living with genital herpes, please consider taking part in this project through an interview and/or completing an anonymous survey. Thanks and best wishes to all! -Mikayla