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Relationships

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

How to disclose herpes....

36 replies

MagicFormula · 29/01/2020 21:31

NC for this.

I've had herpes for about 15 years. Never caused me any issues. Rarely have flare ups, I've maybe had a handful over the course of 15 years. It's no longer a 'big deal' to me because it has no impact on my daily life, but I get it has a stigma.

I've been on 3 or 4 dates with a guy I like a lot. Last time we met up we did some heavy kissing and a bit of sexy touching etc. Nothing whatsoever that would have put him at risk at all.

Next time we see one another, sex may well be on the cards. So, I need to tell him that I've got herpes. But how do I do this?

I keep thinking over the convo in my head but I honestly just can't find the words. Can anyone help? What would you say or, if you be been in my situation, what have you said?

When should I tell him? During our next date? Should I text him before rather than tell him face to face?

I'm scared of him rejecting me which is making me nervous. I realise he may well decide to pack it all in and although I'd be gutted, it's his prerogative. However to complicate things further he is a colleague (although mostly at a different office) so whatever happens I'll need to see him again!

OP posts:
PumpkinP · 31/01/2020 00:31

My friend has it and men generally run a mile when she tells them. Sadly.

Perverted · 31/01/2020 00:48

My friend has it, she caught it at 17 and only has a mild flare up every few years. She says she knows so well when it's coming on etc that she doesn't tell people.

Perverted · 31/01/2020 00:50

If I was dating someone with it I would lask them how well they are able to predict and manage it. It wouldn't bother me.

Sparklyring · 31/01/2020 06:07

@MagicFormula He literally just said that he had something to tell me then told me that he had herpes and wanted to let me know before we went any further so I could make an informed decision. I jokingly told him he'd have to marry me then as I didnt want to have to be the one telling someone. Now very happily married and just cautious to avoid sex if he has an outbreak.

Fridakahlofan · 31/01/2020 06:41

I’d send a text with a link that fairly sums up risks.

I don’t know much about it but would rather have a moment to research in my own time than be faced with making a decision on the spot!

MagicFormula · 31/01/2020 18:26

Thanks all. Lots to consider. I'll need to plan my wording properly I think!

OP posts:
Sparklyring · 31/01/2020 20:39

Good luck @MagicFormula

bigfootfred · 29/02/2020 08:28

Hi I have herpes and actually got diagnosed after being married so I guess hubby couldn't do much but he wasn't really phased I was more embarrassed

But I'd like to know your secrets for not having outbreaks I seem to have them almost monthly!

flamingnoravera · 03/03/2020 07:41

@bigfootfred see your doctor and ask for valocyclovir if you are getting monthly attacks. I take them daily and have for more than 10 years and my attacks are now non existent- unless I stop the pills, then I get an attack with 3 days.

bigfootfred · 03/03/2020 08:29

@flamingnoravera thanks I have a course for next time but I do think the lysine is working the last attack only lasted a short while

Thanks

Cheeseandwin5 · 03/03/2020 17:31

I agree, its better to tell and maybe atleast the night before your next date ( assuming you think it may progress).
This will have time to digest and understand the situation.
He may want to end the relationship or he may want it to continue, this is no reflection on you or him ( those saying if he is a nice guy he will stay are being frankly ridiculous). Some people can handle certain things and some can't, it just means atleast you can walk away with dignity and having done the right thing

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