Millions of people have herpes, and plenty of them are in relationships. For most couples, herpes isnt a huge deal. Try to go into the conversation with a calm, positive attitude. Having herpes is simply a health issue — it doesnt say anything about you as a person.

Is herpes a deal breaker in a relationship?

“The right person will know that herpes is not a deal breaker,” says Henderson, “They will be able to work with you, get over it, and accept it.” If someone cannot deal with it, then they are not the right person, she says. Give yourself credit for being honest with partners.

How do couples deal with herpes?

Some couples have sexual relationships for years without transmitting herpes just by avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks, using condoms regularly and using suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce outbreaks. Couples deal successfully with herpes all the time.