Herpes is a bad STI. And as the last post on the subject mentioned, it currently has no cure, however, all hope isn’t lost for those diagnosed with the Infection. You can still live a normal life with the aid of drugs designed to help contain and manage it. You can also be in a healthy relationship while at it, contrary to what some people think.
Here are some dating tips for people living with Herpes.
COME CLEAN ABOUT YOUR HEALTH CONDITION
Honesty is the biggest lifeline to saving a relationship. It shows care, love, respect, and promotes better understanding between couples. If you have a life threatening condition like herpes, the best thing to do for both yourself and them is to come clean, and tell them the truth about yourself. Tell them exactly what is wrong, and allow them make the choice of whether or not to support you through it, but I doubt they wouldn’t.
It’s important that this disclosure is made from the start. Do not save it for weeks after you would have had series of unprotected sex with them. You’d only expose them to danger, and worsen things for yourself.
GET YOUR PARTNER TESTED
If you’re status is confirmed ‘herpes positive’, then you need to take your partner for a herpes test too to ascertain their status, as there may be a high chance they’re positive, especially if you’ve had unprotected sex with them.
It’s also important to understand that no matter the result of that test, it doesn’t change anything. There are people living with the condition happily, and yours doesn’t have to be different. All you and your partner need do is support each other.
TESTING POSITIVE IS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD
Get above the shame of dating with herpes. It is emotionally hurting to get diagnosed with herpes, therefore, be quick to observe necessary steps of healthy living as soon as you are diagnosed with the condition. Also, be on your feet and start dating again, it makes you overcome the condition and move on with life.
Reduce the risk of infecting your partner with herpes. After getting a suitable partner, it is healthy to observe some common rules before engaging in any intercourse with your new partner — first, use a condom all the time you have sex. Two, refrain from sex during the outbreak of the virus and lastly, use suppressive drugs to avoid the chances of transmission.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH HEALTH EXPERTS
Visit your doctor regularly. See a psychologist if you feel the need to get something off your chest. Just don’t try to do it alone. There’ll be trying times, there’ll be bumps on the way, but you must stay strong, and fight on. Remember, you’re not the only one suffering this condition, and more effort is being channeled by experts into finding a lasting cure.
Drama