Psychological factors in recurrent genital herpes.

Health-related quality of life in Indian patients with three viral sexually transmitted infections: herpes simplex virus-2, genital human papilloma virus and HIV

“…These problems are aggravated by associated relationship problems. Furthermore, the pain and discomfort due to the disease may contribute to psychological stress 17 18. The psychological consequences of genital herpes are generally related to an altered perception of self, altered mood states, fear of rejection and transmitting the disease, isolation and depression 19.…”

The psychosocial impact of serological diagnosis of asymptomatic herpes simplex virus type 2 infection

“…It has been suggested that the recurrences themselves may be associated with altered mood states, and that the pain and discomfort of the disease may be an important aspect of the psychological stress. 23 Thus, it is important to examine the psychological impact of asymptomatic infections independently from the impact on those individuals with clinical disease.…”

Immunological Markers of Frequently Recurrent Genital Herpes Simplex Virus and Their Response to Hypnotherapy: A Pilot Study

“…In humans, prospective studies have not shown any direct relationship between stressful life events and frequency of recurrence of HSV 23,24 , although those who suffer frequent recurrences believe the two to be linked 25 , and score more highly on stress indices than those with less frequent recurrences 26 . There is, however, support for a link between negative mood (de® ned as anxiety, depression and hostility) and frequency of recurrence 24,27 . Two studies have detected increased levels of anxiety in the 4 to 10 days preceding a recurrence 28,29 , independent of prodromal symptoms 29 .…”