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Dating

Best Herpes Dating Advice: What Community Says?

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Dating with herpes might feel like a the biggest task. The already complex world of dating seems to gain an additional layer of challenge—navigating the disclosure and acceptance of having herpes. When I received my genital herpes diagnosis back in 2011, fear engulfed me. It petrified me so much that I stayed in a relationship with the person I'd contracted herpes from. For two years, I held back, not knowing how to broach the daunting conversation of disclosure. Looking back, I wish I had posse…

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Herpes & Forgiveness

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In this week's support group call, our discussion centered around a topic that resonates deeply with many of us - forgiveness. A member shared a significant moment when she reached out to the person who gave her herpes, expressing her forgiveness. This act, born out of a conversation we had in a previous emergency call, highlighted a crucial truth: forgiveness is the key to overcoming the challenges that come with a diagnosis.

Initially, a herpes diagnosis can be overwhelming, inundating us…

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Choosing Yourself Over Rejection

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When we receive a herpes diagnosis, it's not uncommon to feel paralyzed at the thought of dating. I know I certainly did. I remained in a relationship for two more years than I should have, mainly because I didn't know how to disclose my condition, and I was overwhelmed by the fear of rejection.

Over the years, as I've spoken to thousands of people since starting "Life With Herpes" in 2017, a recurring theme I've observed is the tendency to push away someone we're genuinely interested in. This …

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How Can Dating with Herpes Be Liberating

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This week in oursupport group, we had a heartfelt discussion about dating, and more specifically, dating with herpes. I remember the initial feelings I had when I was first diagnosed - the fear that I'd never find love again, the worry that nobody would want me, and the concern that I'd be viewed as disgusting or "damaged goods". But amidst all the uncertainty and anxiety, something remarkable happened: I started to gain a newfound self-confidence and a fresh perspective on dating.
Before her…

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Why Would Someone Want to Sue for a Herpes Diagnosis?

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Dealing with a herpes diagnosis can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. The shock, anger, and frustration that often accompany this diagnosis can lead some individuals to consider suing the person they believe is responsible for their herpes infection. In recent times, a notable lawsuit drew attention when a woman received a substantial $2.4 million settlement due to her herpes infection; you can read about it here. This case, along with others, highlights the growing interes…

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Finding Freedom and Wholeness Beyond Herpes: Breaking Free from the Eeyore Phase

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This week on our support group calls, both in the AM and PM, we delved into a common struggle that many of us have faced—the relentless fog of our herpes diagnosis. We've coined it the "Eeyore phase." It's that time when the weight of our condition seems unbearable, when we question our self-worth, and when we feel like life has taken a dark turn. But here's the thing—we know we don't want to stay stuck in that gloomy place. We're starting to muster the strength to lift the fog.
One aspect th…

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Embracing Resentment: Your Journey after a Herpes Diagnosis

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You've just received a herpes diagnosis, and a whirlwind of emotions is surging through you. Anger, fear, and confusion may be the dominant feelings, but what you're experiencing is entirely normal. In this blog post, we're going to delve into these complex emotions and help you understand that resentment, at its core, is often rooted in jealousy. You're not alone in this journey, and by seeking support, like the Life With Herpes Secret Society, you'll find a glimmer of hope and the tools to nav…

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Understanding Herpes: Insights from an OBGYN

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Living with herpes can be challenging and overwhelming, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. John Martin, an experienced OBGYN, who shared valuable insights about herpes, its impact on pregnancy, and how individuals can navigate this diagnosis. Join us as we delve into the conversation and gain a better understanding of herpes from a medical professional's perspective.

Don't Blame, Educate:


Dr. Martin emphasize…

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The Secret Society: An Online Support Group for Herpes Community

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Finding out you have herpes can be a difficult and isolating experience. When Alexandra, the founder of The Secret Society was first diagnosed, she felt alone and without support. That's why she created The Secret Society, an online support group for people living with herpes.

The Secret Society is a place where people from all over the world come together to find support, make friends, and talk about their herpes journey. It's a safe space where people can be open and honest without fe…

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Accepting My Flaws and a Herpes Diagnosis - There Is More than Just Herpes

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There are way bigger fish to fry in a relationship than having herpes. We always put the herpes issue as the worst possible thing that you could have and you'll never be accepted because you have herpes. Well I'm not saying its not a big conversation and I'm not saying that you'll always be accepted and won't get rejected but what I'm saying is that there are other big things too.

Someone asked me to talk about this as a blog topic. Saying that having herpes is just one of the things your p…

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