I said it in the confessional, and I'll say it again:
I encourage testing for HSV1+HSV2, IGM(new infection) IGG(old infection)
I am a midwife, not a doctor. I also frame any positive results in a way that minimizes stigma and with words that give hope, not judgement. I make a point of discussing healthy sexuality, and the fact that although this adds a conversation (that should have been a part of their conversations with their partners, anyway) that they will still be able to enjoy their partners and enjoy sex in light of the results. We discuss how to approach outbreaks, and how to navigate difficult conversations, social stigma, and the prevalence of HSV in society. ALWAYS in a respectful, open manner that tries to mitigate the despair (and shame) that I often see reflected on their faces when I share positive results. And ALWAYS with words that let them know that they can, and hopefully WILL enjoy a healthy sex life in the future. thanks for listening.
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branchandroot
my $0.02
Date: 2011-02-17 12:50 am (UTC)I encourage testing for HSV1+HSV2, IGM(new infection) IGG(old infection)
I am a midwife, not a doctor.
I also frame any positive results in a way that minimizes stigma and with words that give hope, not judgement. I make a point of discussing healthy sexuality, and the fact that although this adds a conversation (that should have been a part of their conversations with their partners, anyway) that they will still be able to enjoy their partners and enjoy sex in light of the results.
We discuss how to approach outbreaks, and how to navigate difficult conversations, social stigma, and the prevalence of HSV in society.
ALWAYS in a respectful, open manner that tries to mitigate the despair (and shame) that I often see reflected on their faces when I share positive results.
And ALWAYS with words that let them know that they can, and hopefully WILL enjoy a healthy sex life in the future.
thanks for listening.