Herpes
Herpes simplex virus (HSV), often called herpes, is a common virus that is usually transmitted through sexual contact. According to the National Institutes of Health, 4 out of 5 people in the United States carry herpes simplex virus type-1, HSV-1 (which primarily affects the mouth and appears as cold sores) and approximately 1 in 5 people carries herpes simplex virus type-2, HSV-2 (which primarily affects the genitals). Despite being so common, having herpes often comes with a social stigma that can lead to shame, embarrassment, and distress. Learn more about Herpes and it's social and sexual stigmas below.
