Question:
I had a second test done at another facility because I was in denial. The results were identical, of course. No antibodies for HSV-1, lots of them for HSV-2.

That's not why I'm posting today, however.

As you may know from my earlier post, I believe I've had HSV-2 for years, and I've never had an outbreak or any other symptoms.

Since I'm not dealing with outbreaks, my concerns have centered on: did I unknowingly pass HSV-2 onto former partners? What will my past partners think of me if I have? How will the people I'm currently dating view me? How might future partners view me? Last but not least, how do I view myself?

So far, the answers to all of those questions except the last have been heartening. My past partners are getting tested, and are completely supportive. The guys I'm dating now (there are two) asked, "Are you going to be all right?" When I said yes, they both considered it over and done with.

I've realized now that my harshest critic is myself. Not only has everyone forgiven me, they don't even think there is anything to forgive me for. All of the emotional and mental anguish my HSV-2 diagnosis has produced has come from me and no one else.

I've always treated people with HSV-2 or HSV-1 non-judgmentally, and with empathy. I must learn to apply that to myself. I'm shocked by how hard it is. I feel that I've done a wrong, even though no one else is agreeing with me.

Answer:
Give yourself time, and if you have the means to visit a therapist, I'd do it (I definately could have used it when I was first diagnosed, but wasn't able to financially).
On the plus side, the fact that you had the courage to tell all your previous and current partners shows your strength. And your acceptance of their forgiveness leads me to believe that you're already well adjusted, and well able to cope with this challenge.
Keep your head up and remember how many people there are just like yourself.

Answer:
I've always treated people with HSV-2 or HSV-1 non-judgmentally, and with empathy. I'm wondering now if i'm the only one who has never known anyone with HSV (or at least anyone who has identified themselves as having HSV -- not even anyone with apparent cold sores). I can't honestly say i've ever met anyone who i KNEW had HSV. For the number of people in the US who have it, i find that amazing!

However, i'd also have to say i haven't heard anyone joke about it since high school. I don't know anyone who considers STDs to be a lighthearted joke. I haven't heard STDs mentioned in years. How weird is that... maybe i'm just sheltered?

Answer:
...However, i'd also have to say i haven't heard anyone joke about it since high school. I don't know anyone who considers STDs to be a lighthearted joke. I haven't heard STDs mentioned in years. How weird is that... maybe i'm just sheltered? Yeah, I think it's a good thing though. I'd be a little annoyed with STD jokes. I think that for most people it either hits too close to home or scares the hell out of them. Either way, good riddance to herpes jokes.