Recently, I came across a blog that disturbed me to my
polyamorous core, dear reader. I found out that there is someone among sexually
active adults who has genital herpes (HSV-2) AND is not informing his intimate partners. While it just may be a ploy to get readers to really think about genital herpes, it really pissed me off. He writes under the
name of Mr. Douchebag and shared that "I usually “forget” to mention it when I get intimate with a new partner". That’s a
load of bull$%!# people. Though genital herpes is not life-threatening, it can
affect the sexual health of others and the fact that someone has HSV-2 should be shared. No person(s) should have the power to take
away another person’s right to know and to make personal choices, especially
when it involves matters of physical, sexual health…dear reader.
When people learn that they have HSV-2 (genital herpes), I believe that they
should share it with their intimate partner(s)…immediately…no IFs, ANDs or BUTs
about it! To those who are polyamorous with HSV-2…IF you truly love your partner(s), then tell them
BECAUSE you love them…IF you don't love them, then tell them because it’s the respectable and
honorable thing to do.
Now, keep in mind…dear reader…that Douchebag is only ONE (fictitious)
person. Research shows that 80% of those with HSV-2 are not aware that they
even have it! Our first line of defense against acquiring or spreading this
virus must be KNOWLEDGE... people. So, IF you know about your status…share it. IF you don’t know your Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) status…find out through a
simple blood test, by your doctor. Whatever you do, PLEASE don’t become that “someone
with HSV-2" who fails to act responsibly, dear reader.
Polyamorousy Yours,
Cindy
Atlanta PolyNewbie
Atlanta PolyNewbie
It is very distressing to hear something like this is still going on. I remember being informed that there were individuals who deliberately omitted the fact that they were infected with the HIV/AIDs virus with their sexual partners as well. It really should be something that you should share, even if you are too embarrassed or too afraid to admit it. Just put yourself in their shoes...if it was you in their situation, wouldn't you want them to tell you before hand?
ReplyDeleteYou are ABSOLUTELY correct. Fear and embarrassment should not come before truth and openness in any intimate relationship regardless...
ReplyDeleteThanks for your reply.