[Ignite Intimacy Interview]

How to make herpes disclosure sexy?

From Ms. LAH:

Have you or someone you know contracted an STD?

Not sure when or HOW to disclose to new partners about your herpes status?

Sick of the stigmas around Herpes and other STDs?

Tired of potential partners (or current ones) not taking responsibility for their sexual health by NOT getting tested?

Then this episode of Ignite Intimacy is for you.

Join the powerful and courageous Adrial, of Herpes Opportunity, and we dive deep into the topics of STDs, herpes diagnosis and the power of full disclosure on Episode 16 of Ignite Intimacy!

Need personal support?

Work through this one-on-one with a discovery coaching session.

We’re making disclosure sexy baby…

This episode is really powerful and very personal for me. We’re going in on this one. It’s an episode everyone should tune in for.

Frequently asked questions

How can I disclose herpes without killing the mood or sounding like I am delivering bad news?+
The key is your energy and framing. When you approach disclosure with calm confidence rather than shame, the other person takes their emotional cues from you. Treat it as sharing something about yourself, not confessing something terrible. A simple, matter-of-fact tone, combined with a willingness to answer questions, often leaves the other person feeling more connected to you, not less.
Should I disclose herpes over text, on the phone, or in person?+
There is no single right answer. It depends on what feels most authentic to you and the relationship dynamic. In-person disclosure lets you read body language and connect more deeply. Texting can feel less pressured and gives the other person space to process. What matters most is not the medium but your honesty and openness. Choose whatever allows you to be most yourself.
When is the right time to disclose herpes to someone you are dating?+
There is no perfect moment, but a good guideline is to disclose before things get physically intimate, when you have had enough time together to build some rapport. You do not need to share on a first date, but waiting until you are already in bed is unfair to your partner. Most people find that disclosing after a few dates but before sex strikes the right balance.
What do I do if I get rejected after disclosing herpes?+
Rejection stings, but it says more about that person's readiness and education than about your worth. Many people in the herpes community report that their most meaningful relationships began after a disclosure, because it filtered for partners who value honesty. Allow yourself to feel the disappointment, but do not let one person's reaction define your dating future.

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