Question:
I was diagnosed with HSV-2 on yesterday. I am a "soon to be" pharmacist and have given many lectures on STDs, specifically HSV. So imagine my surprise when the positive test results were revealed. I contracted the virus from an ex-boyfriend/classmate who apparently contracted the virus from another classmate of ours. Fortunately, I am educated enough on the pathophysiology of the virus as well as the pharmacotherapy, to know that this is not the end of my world. I recall have my first OB about two months ago and ironically, I just thought I had nicked myself while shaving the area. Then, about 2 weeks about I noticed 4 small tender vesicles. I was still unalarmed but decided to go get them checked out anyway. You see, in pharmacy school you are taught only about the typical severely, painful OBs. My two Obs were never severe or very painful. Like I said, I recieved the positive results yesterday morning. Last night I sat reading some of the posts on this site. Unlike many of the newly diagnosed individuals on the site, I'm not depressed or feel like my world is coming to an end. I am hurt that I was betrayed by someone that I trusted. However, I am relieved that herpes is what I ended up with. I feel blessed to not have HIV instead. I am in no way attempting to negate anyone's feelings. However, I just want those of you out there who are depressed or suicidal to know that HSV 1 and 2 are common viruses. I started my suppressive therapy today (Valtrex 500mg daily for 1 year). I know that my personal life will forever be affected but everything (good or bad) happens for a reason. As a student pharmacist, I really did think I could trust my classmates because we are all "supposed" to be well educated. All in all, herpes will not kill me. It will not stop me from achieving my goals. Yeah, my personal is going to suffer a little, but there is someone out there who will understand my situation.

Answer:
YAY!!! Another positive outlook. And so nice to hear it from someone who has studied it. I as well have not been depressed. Alittle down here and there but never ever depressed. Best of luck to you and wish you all the happiness in the world.

Answer:
Thank you Strong. Education is the key. If I had been diagnosed a few years ago, I might have blown my brains out (literally). But I'm in a place in life where I'm pretty successful, beautiful (herpes dosen't affect my physical appearance:cool:). The virus itself is not the problem, the problem is the stigma attached to having the virus. I am not a nasty woman and because I know that, I am at peace with what God has brought upon me. About 1 in 5 people have HSV. That's alot of people. HSV is a pain in the butt however, you're not gonna die. I feel that embarrassment is what people fear the most. Followed by shame and rejection. This is all due to an ignorant STIGMA. Nobody puts a stigma on Hypertension, Obesity, Type 2 diabetes, etc. and those disease states can kill you! I too am somewhat concerned about what my potential mates will think, but if someone can't accept me then screw 'em. I think that if herpes was not sexually transmitted then it wouldn't be such a big deal.

Answer:
I agree, I as well have to much going for me to let this get in my way. It'll be interesting if I get back in the dating scene again. Never had a problem attracting men. Just getting rid of them. This might be an interesting turn around on seeing if I can keep em". lol. but to be honest I'm lucky enough to be in a relationship with whom I am very in love with.

Answer:
The virus itself is not the problem, the problem is the stigma attached to having the virus.

I've said that many many times on here. (I can't agree with you that there isn't a stigma attached to obesity though!).

As you've just done your training on this virus, can you tell us any up-to-date info on it. In particular, how prevalent is type 1 genitally, and is there any concensus about the frequenty of shedding. It would be really valuable to know of any up-to-date studies.

Thank you in advance!

Answer:
oh and couples with ghsv2.. what are the odds of spreading it through oral sex if not during an outbreak and well after one. Heard its rare. but would love up to date info so to speak. much appreciated.

Answer:
I have a quick question for blessed (my mom is a pharmacist but I cant ask her it). Does taking suppressive medication for a year or so have a positive long term effect on the virus or does it just suppress outbreaks? I dont know the first think about pharmacy but in my head I didnt want to take them because I thought I would build up a resistance to the meds which would work against me if I had a bad outbreak. My problem is that I have really mild (1 blister or so) outbreaks all the time, one doesnt seem to have ended before another begins. I would take suppressive meds if i thought it would help. Your advise would be great. I promise I wont ask you any more med related questions after that! Take care