Stigma associated with genital herpes is real and impacts on behaviour

The perceived stigma associated with genital herpes can have a profound effect on those who have the condition but it can also influence those who are uninfected, for example by prompting them to change their behaviour in order to avoid the risk of infection. These are the findings of new research from the USA which examines the effects of stigma on genital herpes care-seeking behaviour.

Researchers at the Mid-America Adolescent STD Cooperative Research Center in Indianapolis reviewed various concepts of stigma in relation to the prevention and treatment of genital herpes and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They set out to demonstrate that stigma is a reality that affects both herpes-infected and uninfected people in the most intimate aspects of their daily lives. At the same time, stigma in relation to genital herpes is difficult to define since its impact varies during different phases of the condition.

Herpes-related stigma stems from three sources: the link between genital herpes and 'irresponsible' sexual behaviour, the perception that herpes is highly contagious and lack of awareness that genital herpes can be treated effectively. This stigma can affect behaviour in a number of different ways. Some of these could be regarded as having a positive impact, such as encouraging condom use, practising abstinence during outbreaks or taking suppressive therapy to prevent transmission. On the other hand, the perceived stigma associated with genital herpes can also have a negative effect on behaviour and may, for example, prevent people from being tested for the infection or from telling partners they are infected.

The authors of the research conclude that stigma plays an important role in both the social and public health response to STIs, including herpes, and that it affects both infected and uninfected people.

Reference

Fortenberry J, Stigma and Genital Herpes Care-seeking Behaviour. Herpes 11:1 2004