A relationship when one partner has HSV2?

Anonymous — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:11:44 -0800

So, I've been in three long term relationships, and while I'm not quite a blushing virgin, now that I'm dating, I'm realizing that I'm quite possibly a bit more naïve than most. I've been on a few dates with a really wonderful man, and he's disclosed that he has herpes. Nothing has happened yet that would put me at risk, but I'm trying to figure out what this means. I know nothing about herpes except what I've learned online in the last few days of research. I know that means that he needs to stay wrapped during all sexual activities, and no sexual contact during a flare up. I understand that just because there's no symptoms doesn't mean that he's not shedding, and that there are some drugs that can be taken daily that may reduce flare ups and possibly cut down on the shedding. I've found some references to a vaccine for women, but all of those mentions seem to be a few years old. Obviously, I should go somewhere and get tested myself, just so I know where I'm starting from, and also talk to the doctor/nurse/technician there about information and options.

But I'd like to know what other things I should be asking about, and what my real risks are of contagion are. And I'd also like to know if there are any down sides of taking the suppresant, and if so, are they worth it? Any real information you have on being in a relationship with someone who has herpes would vastly useful.

Cheap herpes blood tests in NYC?

Anonymous — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 07:59:07 -0800

My partner and I want to get herpes blood tests -- the cheaper, the better -- in New York. We aren't interested in opinions on whether having the test is advisable.

NYC offers free STD testing -- but only for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis C. Not herpes.

Through my student health center, I can get the blood test for $160. I consider this unfortunately high for me, and my partner isn't a student. We don't have insurance that covers the test.

Again, we're looking for a blood test, not a swab test. A type-specific test would be great, although we recognize its limitations and realize it wouldn't tell us the site of infection.

We've heard HerpeSelect (of Focus) and Captia (of Trinity Biotech) recommended as more accurate, with fewer false negatives. Providers that offer these tests would be extra-super-ideal, but obviously, we'll take what we can get.

We'll go anywhere accessible by public transport.

I'm sorry if I sound stiff or cold -- I'm just trying to discourage derailing with opinions of whether the test is worthwhile. We are well-informed and we know we want the test, the question is just where. Thank you guys very much!

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A relationship when one partner has HSV2?

Cheap herpes blood tests in NYC?