It's Not That Bad!

by Lila
(Ottawa, Ontario)

I've just contracted genital herpes simplex 1 about a month ago, I'm 21. I caught it from my new boyfriend who didn't know he had it and has never shown symptoms. I was initially devastated, crying, regretting, and worried for my future. I've come to this realization though... IT'S NOT THAT BAD! If you look at it logically, it is a skin irritation, it won't kill you, it won't damage any of your vital organs, and it is a manageable virus! Read all you can on how you can keep your immune system strong! You can do it!! This is your body; you can control it, and love yourself for who you are herpes and all!!

And the thing is, this virus is hugely stigmatized, made fun of all the time. So as you grow up you are repelled by it, but that's just insensitive ignorance, and don't be convince that just because a lot of people think that way it's true. Much of the world is ignorant and ill-informed! Focus on your life, what you love and I have absolute faith that you will get what you want including great sex and a great partner.

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Dear Lila,

Thank you for sharing your story with us! It’s because of people like you who pay it forward that others with the same condition can have hope despite their different situations in life. Continue to be an inspiration to other people. We wish all the best for you.

God bless.

Gary

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Mar 11, 2015
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I was born this way
by: Anonymous

I've had HSV1 my whole life. I've always been very lucky and upfront about it, and I honestly can't say I've ever felt ashamed or embarrassed. Maybe because I caught it so young or maybe because its just always been part of me. Like having a crooked nose and a shellfish allergy. Sucks but hey, life will go on. I talk about it to help destygmatize the stupid little bumps that like to grow anywhere on my face the second I get sick, drink too much, or walk outside. I can't say its a joy to have but it could always be worse. Also I take valtrex during outbreaks and that seems to help speed up healing along with campho phenique and lavender oil.

Aug 26, 2013
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Couldnt agree more
by: Katie

I couldn't agree more! A powerful post!

I caught simplex 1, genital herpes when I was a VIRGIN, from genital herpes. (from my boyfriend of 2 years, who I am still with, who has never had a breakout on his genitals but has had 'cold sores' before, but not at the time I got my first breakout)

So basically I got genital herpes from oral sex, which I'd been having with the same person for 2 years, I was 18 at the time, and had been with ONLY the one person (my boyfriend) sexually. He had had cold sores on his lips before, but hey, NO ONE stigmatizzes a cold sore on the lip the same as HERPES. It's so wrong how its so stereotyped, you're right!

This is a GREAT post, everything you've said is correct, it's just the way people view the word 'herpes' but if you had a cold sore on your mouth its nothing? Thank you HEAPS!

May 03, 2012
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hope
by: Anonymous

I was diagnosed yesterday and I'm in horrible pain. I've been feeling so low about this and so down that they even had to prescribe me medication just to calm me down at the same time.

Reading this made me cry, in such a good way. It's the first time I've felt hope for something like this. I'm also young (21) and always had safe safe sex.

Thank you!

Mar 10, 2012
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Thank u!
by: Anonymous

Hi, I just found out that I contacted genital herpes from my ex boyfriend of 5yrs. I have been really, really sad about this diagnosis. I have been feeling depressed, loosing weight.. but at the same time Im not trying to become too stressed about it to cause an out break. Your story of the logic of the disease made me feel better. Thank you.

Feb 13, 2012
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don't sweat it
by: Lila

Well I'd just like to say, it's been about 4 months since I contracted the virus and I still feel the same way. Seriously, this is not worth loosing sleep over, I have told many people that I've got HSV-1 and most said "oh, oh well!" and the rest said they had it too! So don't sweat it! You are all good! :) xoxo

Feb 12, 2012
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Thank You
by: Katherine

You've given me hope, I am 23 and have the same condition as you. I've been feeling pretty low lately and its honestly depressing. Reading your view on it however is making me feel better. Once again thanks.

Dec 01, 2011
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thanks
by: Anonymous

Thank you, you definitely lifted my spirits!

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