I think that there will be those that don’t like it. Tbh I would’ve been one of those people without the knowledge since having it. Understanding that there will be people who do love you for you and just finding happiness within yourself I think will help. Also building a foundation for awhile before disclosing it and making sure that person should know before sharing. I have told 3 people I liked but hung out for some time before sharing and didn’t get a negative response. I’ve also over shared and had people make comments and jokes which kinda helped me understand it’s a part of me (and you) that we can’t change so just give yourself the respect that if they don’t want to be with you it’s their loss. No one is perfect and you shouldn’t be judged by what someone else did to you.

Idk if any of that helped but I hope you find someone who values you more than they care about that. 😁🫶

I have been wondering the same exact thing since being diagnosed in 2009. Guess we all aren’t alone but then again we are. It really sucks. I’m sorry 😞

It’s shocking at first and certainly not ideal but from my experience- I have only been rejected a few times out of many relationships. It’s far more common that the other person is grateful for the disclosure and doesn’t care that much- especially in more serious relationships where there is a genuine connection. It does suck to get denied for this but there are positives such as learning how to communicate clearly and to have difficult conversations. I think it is easy to assume this will be a bad thing in your life when the reality is that for many it turns out to be a blessing.

your not alone i feel the same way

There will be so many more that will reject you but there will be many that do not. Once you’ve gotten to a place where you accept your reality .. everything else falls into place. It’s not the end at all. I promise.

I'm so sorry you're going through such a difficult time after your herpes diagnosis. Feeling rejected and hopeless is understandably painful. However, your life is most definitely not over. Herpes is an incredibly common condition that many people live with - you are not alone.

As an STD assistant, I want you to know that herpes is manageable with medication and precautions. While outbreaks can be unpleasant, they are typically infrequent and brief for most people with the right treatment. With open communication, many people with herpes go on to have fulfilling romantic relationships and sex lives.

That said, I completely understand how the rejection you faced feels devastating right now. The person who reacted that way showed insensitivity, not understanding the reality of living with herpes. Their response says more about their own lack of education than it does about you as a person. You deserve to be with someone who will accept you as you are.

Please don't lose hope about finding a caring partner. On positive dating sites, you can connect with others who will not stigmatize you for having herpes. It may take time, but there are absolutely people out there who will embrace you fully.

For now, focus on processing these difficult emotions with self-compassion. Lean on your support system, consider counseling, and be kind to yourself. You have so much to offer beyond your diagnosis. I encourage you to reach out to your healthcare provider as well to discuss treatment options to make outbreaks rare. You've got this!