Newly Diagnosed HSV2

[PleaseHelp 3]

Trying to figure out what to do from here. We have been in the lifestyle for a decade. Had a recent, and extremely unfortunate, separation. We both had partners (unfortunately, neither one confirmed tests🤦🏻‍♂️), and are now HSV2 positive. We both love the lifestyle but do not know where to turn or if we are just fucked ( no pun). Yes, we are working on us first, but are wondering if there is “life” after this. We will not hide it, we are respectful of others, and we do not wish to risk anyone. Any direction is appreciated (shitty comments will get ya no where… jus sayin)

[njbm 2,735]

Hope you see a medical doctor. I understand that anti-viral medications, such as Valtrex, can suppress the symptoms. There are other posters on this site who are far more medically informed than me. Hope they pipe up. 

A great number of swingers ( and the general public) are HSV and HPV positive. We’ve learned that condom usage is not that protective. 

 

Sorry to hear of this problem. Hopefully, it can be improved through medication. 

[Fundamental Law 2,832]

The first step is to take a deep breath. HSV2 is quite common. It is a chronic condition, as the virus hides in the nerve ganglia and emerges especially during stress. 

 

As njbm mentioned, there is treatment and it is quite effective in suppressing the lesions. Valacyclovir, trade name Valtrex. Speak with your physicians. 

 

This is an infection that millions and millions of people live with. It is much less complicated to live with and treat compared to (for example) HIV. 

 

You should disclose the condition to potential play partners. So long as you are taking Valtrex and there are neither lesions nor the sensation that a lesion might soon develop (often described as a tingling/burning sensation) your risk of transmitting the virus is very low. 

 

 

Edited November 30, 2021 by Fundamental Law

[cplnuswing 4,711]

Sorry you are having to deal with this, but it sounds like you are approaching it in a mature and reasonable manner.

 

If it is any comfort, we know someone who found themselves in a similar situation.  After the initial shock wore off, it turned out to be not anywhere even remotely close to the life-altering event initially feared.

[AndrewandAnn 359]

What an unfortunate situation. We feel for you.

 

Obviously, the first thing to do is to partner up with a physician familiar with STIs who can provide you proper medical resources, design an aggressive treatment regimen, and provide behavioral counseling.

 

Some additional practical advice going forward:

 

Always presume you are contagious and act accordingly. Asymptomatic persons with HSV2 shed cells roughly once every ten days, meaning you can infect someone regardless of how you "feel". The infection exists in the cells of the skin and the disease can spread even from healthy-appearing skin. People with frequent legions can shed HSV2 cells as often as once every three days. Do not engage in sexual activity with a partner when a legion is present.

 

The consistent use of latex or polyurethane condoms (both male and female) are a MUST from here on out. Latex or polyurethane condoms provide a physical barrier that prevent skin-to-skin contact and are an essential part of the management of the disease. Studies show consistent use of condoms reduces the risk of STI transmission by upwards of 80%. This is true across the full spectrum of STIs, not just HSV2. Note natural membrane condoms are not effective at preventing STIs.

 

The use of suppressive medications will reduce the risk of HSV2 transmission, but will never eliminate it. Don't place false confidence in your treatment regimen. According to the CDC, daily suppressive therapy will only reduce the risk of transmission by 70-80%.

 

You should exercise special caution before engaging in sex with a woman (now called 'person with a vagina' by the ridiculously woke CDC! Lol!) of childbearing years. Although rare, HSV2 can present serious complications for a pregnant woman and her baby.

 

Lastly, there is the ethical question: Do you continue to engage in sex with multiple partners when you knowingly have the potential to spread a chronic disease? That's something you will have to work out based upon your own ethical/moral compass.

 

If you haven't yet reviewed the CDC's herpes resources, here's the link: https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/herpes.htm

 

Best of luck to you and your partner.

[PleaseHelp 3]

Hi guys,

Thank you all for the input. We have been to our physicians, have started treatment, and are very aware on the effects of life this inconvenience has on ours. We have lost “Dear” friends (guess they were not that “Dear”) and have been ostracized in our community. We understand that this is more of an annoyance than a disease (for lack of a better term). It is just frustrating…..we are both honest and will take every precaution if we ever play again.