HSV-2 Which one is it?

Hi:

I'm petrified. I have the STD virus in my system, but have no idea how to tell the new man in my life.

Any suggestions?

Thanks -
DIana

Alison, you're right on about the difference between the terms STD and STI. I was recently corrected when I used the term STD, and was told that it was outdated, and the more relevant term is STI. The person who corrected me works at Planned Parenthood and they've had to change the language in their brochures and other marketing materials to reflect this industry-wide change.

Kristin Park
http://ppdsurvivor.blogspot.com

What I learned regarding the difference between between the terminology of STI and STD:

STI (sexually transmitted infection) is the most up-to-date, broader term for conditions that are sexually-transmittable. They are referred to as "infections", because not all of these conditions develop into a disease.

STD (sexually transmitted disease) is an STI that has developed into a disease.

Many STIs are bacterial infections (chlyamdia is one example), and with treatment, may not develop into a full-blown disease.

As for the terms themselves, I know my parents' generation used to call them "VD" (veneral disease). Then came along the term "STD". Now, the term "STI" is being used, but not all organizations have updated their written information to incorporate this change.

As for HSV-2 specifically, I would wait to hear what Tina finds out from their experts. If you don't mind me "thinking out loud", I have learned that there is a continuum of conditions, that includes "infection" and "disease". A "disease" can be caused by an "infection", and "disease" is the broader term.

Thanks for clarifying. Will look into the STI/STD designations and get back to you. Good question.

Thanks for your question ... According to the American Social Health Association, a non-profit organization that advocates on behalf of STD patients, HSV 2 is technically classified as a virus. You can find more information about them, by clicking on this link.

But because we're fond of second opinions here at EmpowHer.com, we have also posed your question to the American Dermatology Association and will let you know what we find out.

In the meantime, here's some more information about Herpes Simplex Virus 2 courtesy of the National Institutes of Health if you haven't already researched this source.

Are you with a support group right now? Or interested in joining one? We may be able to provide you up with resources in that direction too.