Woman Faces Backlash for Herpes Disclosure on Online Dating Profile

From STD Dating Site: Greater Manchester, UK — August 14, 2024 — Victoria Jones, a 23-year-old resident of Greater Manchester, has become a focal point in the ongoing discussion about stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) following her decision to disclose her herpes diagnosis on her online dating profile. Victoria’s brave choice to be transparent about her health status has unfortunately led to a wave of negative and harsh responses, underscoring the urgent need for greater empathy and education regarding STIs.

Victoria, who was diagnosed with herpes in 2020, chose to include her condition on her online dating profile to promote honesty and protect her potential partners. Her intention was to create an environment of openness and safety, ensuring that anyone interested in pursuing a relationship with her was fully informed about her sexual health. However, instead of receiving support, Victoria has been met with a barrage of cruel comments, shaming, and discrimination.

“Revealing my herpes diagnosis on my dating profile was a decision driven by a desire to be honest and to avoid any potential issues in future relationships,” Victoria explained. “I wanted to make sure that anyone I connected with knew about my condition beforehand, but the response has been overwhelmingly negative. It’s been a painful and isolating experience.”

The reaction Victoria has received highlights a troubling trend in how society treats individuals with STIs. Despite her commitment to transparency, Victoria has been subjected to derogatory remarks and has faced significant challenges in finding meaningful connections. Her profile saw a dramatic decline in matches, from an average of ten daily matches to just two in two weeks following her disclosure.

“I was shocked and hurt by the reaction I received,” Victoria shared. “Some people thought I was joking when I mentioned having herpes, while others have been outright hostile. It’s disheartening to see how quickly people can turn away based on a medical condition.”

The stigma associated with herpes and other STIs remains a significant barrier to understanding and acceptance. Victoria’s experience underscores the need for more comprehensive education about STIs and the impact of stigma on individuals who live with these conditions. “The hardest part is the way people react when they hear the word ‘herpes,’” Victoria noted. “It’s as if the diagnosis automatically changes how they view me, and not in a positive way.”

Despite the negative reactions, Victoria has found some solace and support through her presence on social media platforms like TikTok. There, she has received encouraging messages from individuals who appreciate her openness and bravery. “The positive feedback on TikTok has been a bright spot in this experience,” she said. “It’s reassuring to know that there are people who understand and accept me for who I am.”

Victoria’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for increased compassion and understanding towards individuals with STIs. Her decision to disclose her herpes diagnosis reflects a broader issue of stigma and misinformation that affects many people. By sharing her experience, Victoria hopes to spark a more informed and empathetic conversation about sexual health and the challenges faced by those living with STIs.

As Victoria continues to navigate the complexities of online dating and personal disclosure, her experience highlights the importance of addressing stigma and fostering a culture of respect and acceptance. Her bravery in sharing her story is a call to action for greater awareness and sensitivity in how we approach sexual health issues.

PositiveSingles (iOS / Android) is the world’s largest, completely anonymous, and most trusted online dating site for individuals with Herpes, HPV, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Chlamydia or other STDs. Imagine a dating site where you are accepted for who you are regardless of your medical history. Welcome to PS, a haven where a simple STI or STD diagnosis doesn’t keep you from experiencing love, community and connection. Find people who understand and forget the stigma that might have followed you on previous dating sites. This is a perfect place for you to be you!