I feel like nobody on here talks about having the talk with a potential partner. Whether sexual or relational, it’s hard to be honest. I’ll tell you what made me more comfortable. For one, I contracted HSV2 when I was raped. After a lot of self healing I finally felt comfortable telling my closest circle of people. Everyone was supportive. Some were here for me more than others - who simply just didn’t know what to say. Guess what? That’s okay.

I told my ex of 4 years about It. He was the nicest response I ever had and It will forever stick with me; he said “It changes nothing about you. Nothing could change how i feel about you. I know who you are & the good in you. How can someone negate that because of an std? I’ll forever love you and I’m sure someone will love you because you’re an amazing person”

A little background me and him always stayed close friends. A few days later, he told me how i should tell someone who’s interested in me. He wanted me to become comfortable telling people what i have. At first i was annoyed. Then i realized he was right. How could i become comfortable and confident with myself if i shy away from relationships because of THE TALK!?

Since our conversation i had two talks. The best advice i can give is to be up front, honest, and don’t have expectations. Remind yourself of who you are. HSV2 doesn’t make you, you. Understand that people can be thrown off by it. But stay true to yourself. So far my two talks went completely different. One was very thrown off (because we had just met) lol but he was okay with things. The second was nervous because i told him after we kissed a lot and he convinced himself he had HS1, which he did not. He took It badly but guess what? I’m okay. Sure i was bummed out but life goes on. I’m not going to stop living because of the talk.

Push through and be direct. I’m two talks later. No success on a boyfriend but every talk gives me confidence + clarity.

Hope this helps you guys! Deep breathes and honesty is key.