Sharing the experiences of other people with herpes can be invaluable, especially if you do not have a local support group or if you feel unable to confide in friends or family.

One of the most frequent requests from visitors to the site is for more shared experiences. We are always looking for these but, understandably, many people find this a big step to take.

Shared Experiences gives you the opportunity to hear from others, to tell your story or to simply share information that you feel may be helpful or informative to other visitors to the site.

Patient Diary

The aim of these diaries is to illustrate the reality of living with genital herpes. You will be able to follow the progress of each diarist as they encounter difficult times and then more positive experiences and the chances are that you will recognise many of the emotions expressed. While each person's circumstances are unique, there are many shared themes, insights and challenges in the period immediately after diagnosis. Sharing these experiences will help to remove some of the social stigma that is still associated with genital herpes in many countries.

Read diaries

Rest assured:

• We will not publish your story without your permission.
  
• We don’t need to use your real name or provide any details that would identify you (we like to mention your country, though).
  
• While we do reserve the right to edit your story, this is purely to ensure that it is clear, internationally relevant and doesn’t cause offence.
  

Life stories:

Sebastien a découvert qu'il est bien possible de bâtir une relation malgré l'herpès

Sebastien found that herpes doesn't have to end relationships - it can have a positive effect

Natalie has grown up with facial herpes

Jenny was truly unlucky, she found out she had herpes after her first sexual encounter

Treatment relieved Bjorn's pain and he has learned to live with herpes

Christine finds that support from a partner and doctor is important when symptoms are severe

Elliott realises how vital it is to talk openly to your partner so you can cope together

Mary realises that if you care for someone telling them you have herpes is best for everyone

Rachel refuses to let herpes infect her spirit

Kyoko realises that as difficult as living with herpes can be, it is not the end of your life

Support from her family and partner make Jessica realise that Life Goes On

Positive thinking and a healthy approach keep Liana on top

Varied symptoms made Jane's diagnosis difficult

Jennifer sees through the oldest myth about herpes

As Margaret discovered, herpes can strike at any time of life

Barbara didn't know she had been infected with herpes when she was pregnant with Jimmy. Here she tells their story

Joyce hopes that the new patient group in the Netherlands will help thousands of people like her

Carolyn's determination and confidence gave her the strength to forgive and move on with her life

David's fear of disclosing his diagnosis of herpes to potential partners meant his relationships could never progress.

Loretta recognises the value of a positive outlook when dealing with the emotional implications of having herpes