Genital herpes: The psychological consequences

Abstract

This study investigated the psychological consequences of genital herpes among 42 men and women. The impact of the disease was assessed relative to five life-areas: sexual functioning, interpersonal relationships, emotional responses, self-concept, and work or school performance. The impact of genital herpes can be best understood when placed in the context of the ethical issues raised by the disease, the individual sufferer's personal development, psychodynamics and self-concept, and the meaning which genital herpes has come to have in society. It was found that for some individuals this illness produces psychological reactions of sufficient severity to warrant psychotherapeutic intervention.

Psychological factors in recurrent genital herpes.

“…[25][26][27] However, Brookes et al,3 seeking to overcome the difficulties of such uncontrolled cross sectional designs, obtained self ratings on a variety of variables relative to before infection in long term herpes sufferers. The study had the problems of other retrospective data in this area.…”

Developing a Measure of Quality of Life for Patients with Recurrent Genital Herpes

“…Some sufferers have reported that herpes only became a major issue in their lives when the media discovered the disease (7). Indeed, there appears to be less stigma attached to genital herpes and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in general in some of the other European countries (notably Denmark and the Netherlands), where attitudes toward sexual activity and STDs are less condemnatory than in the United Kingdom and the United States.…”

Psychosocial Aspects of Genital Herpes: A Review of the Literature

“…The authors concluded that only 33% had adapted to the disease in a satisfactory manner. The psychologic consequences of genital herpes were examined in 42 individuals with herpes who were seeking counseling or psychotherapy (Drob, Loemer, & Lifshutz, 1985). Findings revealed that the majority felt less sexually desirable, depressed, and worried about recurrences, and were pessimistic about the future course of the disease.…”