Hi all-

So, I recently found out that I have genital herpes. When I found out, I was confused, sad, terrified and just about any other negative emotion. I haven't told any of my friends or family. In fact, the only person that knows is my boyfriend. My boyfriend and I have been dating for almost 5 years. I got my test results back and it turns out its type 1. I got it from my boyfriend (he has a history of cold sores, which is type 1). As strange as it may sound, I'm not mad at him. He felt HORRIBLE when I told him. He can't stop apologizing to me. I've accepted the fact that I will have this the rest of my life. I've accepted the fact that this can happen gain.

My question to you all is, do any of you have genital herpes caused by type 1? I heard it's less common to have recurrence because type 1 prefers to stay in the mouth region. But, how do you manage it? What triggers it? I understand this is a touchy subject to a lot of people and a lot of people don't feel comfortable putting things like this out there. But if any way can give me the least bit of advice, I would be extremely grateful.

After doing some solid research (academic journals and personal testimony), I am 100% under the impression that it's literally just a skin condition. There are a lot of herpblrs on the internet and they offer a ton of information about how the stigma surrounding HSV-1 and HSV-2 is ridiculous and unwarranted. Just recognize when you have flares and don't do anything.

I actually once read (some time ago now, I don't remember where or I'd link it) that way back when it was just seen as an inconvenience - just something that happened to some people occasionally, a nbd type thing. Then one day someone came up with a medication that would help suppress/manage people's outbreaks, but no one actually cared enough to buy it. So he started a huge campaign to make it into a much bigger deal than it actually was - just so his product would sell.

Nevertheless, I'm sorry you have to go through this. Regardless how you or anyone else views it, I can only imagine how you must feel right now. Unfortunately I don't have much to offer in ways of advice, but I can definitely understand your wanting to reach out to others who share in this experience. Maybe look into support groups or forums? I'm sure there must be something out there for you. Good luck. =)