How I navigate dating with herpes

By Addis Fouche

Getting diagnosed with HSV-2 forced me to take a hard look at my past, present, and future sexual interactions. I was faced with the reality that I used sex as a way to control my happiness and self worth.

I had to decide who was worth both my sexual engagement and the potential of rejection rather than just having sex with anyone I thought would give me the non-violent touch I so craved.

I was encouraged to be vulnerable with myself and others about my STI and other subjects too. And most importantly: I was less tolerant of stigma and began to hold people accountable for willingly believing misinformation.

How I navigate dating with herpes

By Addis Fouche