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How I Found God and True Identity Through a Herpes Diagnosis
Life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths, often shaking us to our core before we find the strength to rise again. For Lindsey Ellyn, that moment came with a herpes diagnosis—something she never saw coming but ultimately became the wake-up call she needed. In this episode of Life with Herpes, hosted by Alexandra Harbushka, Lindsey shares her deeply personal journey of battling stigma, facing despair, and ultimately discovering mercy in God.
Confronting the Stigma and the Darkest Mome…
Disclosing That You Have Herpes Before the First Date
Why It May Not Be the Best Idea
Deciding when to disclose that you have herpes is a deeply personal decision. For many, the instinct to be upfront about their diagnosis comes from a place of wanting to be honest and avoid potential future complications. But disclosing that you have herpes before the first date may not be the best strategy for a few reasons.
1. It Can Create an Unnecessary Barrier Early On
Disclosing your herpes status before even getting to know someone can place an unnec…
Can You Take Lysine Supplements Long-term?
Lysine supplements are generally considered safe for long-term use for most people. Lysine is an essential amino acid, meaning your body can't produce it on its own, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements. Many people take lysine supplements to support immune health or to manage conditions like herpes simplex virus (HSV) outbreaks.
However, as with any supplement, it’s important to use it appropriately. Here are a few key points to consider when taking lysine long-term:
1. Dosage M…
Your First Herpes Outbreak: Tips for Soothing and Healing
Experiencing your first herpes outbreak can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know that you can take several steps to soothe symptoms and promote healing. Here are some suggestions to help you manage your symptoms effectively and get on the path to recovery.
1. Try a Recovery Soak
Taking a warm Epsom salt bath can be incredibly soothing during a herpes outbreak. Epsom salts help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. You can make your own soak by adding essential oils like lavende…
HSV, HPV vs HIV: Understanding the Differences
A Guide to Common Viral Infections
When discussing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), three acronyms often come up: HSV, HPV, and HIV. These abbreviations stand for herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). While all three are viral infections transmitted through sexual contact, they differ significantly in their symptoms, long-term effects, and management. In this blog post, we'll explore the key differences and similarities betwee…
Addressing Common Concerns When You're Newly Diagnosed with Herpes
As many of you know, our Monday calls and community support are a constant reminder that you’re never alone on this journey. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by your diagnosis or uncertain about what the future holds—relationships, outbreaks, or even the risk of other STIs—I’ve been there too. Today, I want to share insights on some common concerns, debunk prevalent myths, and offer practical advice to help you navigate this new chapter in your life.
The Emotional Impact and Stigma of a…
How Hard Is It to Disclose Herpes?
Navigating the Challenges of Disclosure
Disclosing herpes to a partner is one of the most daunting conversations many people face. The fear of rejection, judgment, and misunderstanding can make it seem like an insurmountable obstacle. However, it's important to remember that while disclosing herpes can be challenging, it is far from the most difficult conversation you might have in life. Herpes is a common condition, affecting a large portion of the population, and with the right approach, …
From Hookup Culture to Real Connection: How Herpes Changes Dating for the Better
Our support group call this week was incredibly meaningful. It allowed us to dive deeper into our beliefs and boundaries when it comes to dating and relationships. Before I get into today’s discussion and my thoughts on it, I want to take a moment to celebrate our community. I absolutely love our space, and I love welcoming new members (hi, new members!). I love seeing familiar faces from those who have been joining our Monday calls for years. I love hearing life updates, whether they are herp…
Afraid to Ask About a Partner's STD Results, But Willing to Sleep with Them?
Navigating the Challenges of Discussing Sexual Health
Entering a new sexual relationship can be exciting, but it also comes with responsibilities, including discussing sexual health. Many people find themselves willing to be intimate with a new partner but feel afraid to ask about their STD results. This fear is common, yet addressing it is crucial for your health and the health of your partner. In this blog post, we'll explore why it's important to have this conversation, how to approach…
Lysine Topically or Internally for Herpes
Discover the Benefits of Lysine for Managing Herpes
Herpes is a common and often frustrating condition that can cause painful outbreaks and discomfort. Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage herpes, and one of the most promising solutions involves the amino acid lysine. This blog post will explore how lysine can be used both topically and internally to manage herpes symptoms, highlighting its benefits and applications in products like our lip balm for oral herpes and Rescue Balm …