When Life Gives You Herpes: An Exploration of How Herpes Simplex Stigma on Social Media Impacts Patients and Their Relationships With Providers

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent and chronic sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is heavily stigmatized, rendering discussion of STIs between clinicians, patients, and sexual partners, more difficult. How an STI like HSV is discussed on social media sites, which have grown in prevalence and popularity, exemplifies societal beliefs related to STI stigma. The purpose of this study is to explore the intersection of HSV stigma, social media, and the patient-provider relationship. Specifically, the goal is to understand how HSV related social media content is interpreted in the context of stigma, whether interpretations differ depending on contextual factors (i.e. demographics, experiences with STIs, sexual education), and to understand the lived experiences of stigma and social media for those living as HSV positive.