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Herpes and Stigma- a Clinical Study
The use of suppressive medication did not affect anxiety
scores. In conclusion, the reaction to a diagnosis of genital herpes is
influenced by a socially constructed understanding and the decision to
disclose or not is influenced by this
Date: 10/20/2007 1:05:06 PM ( 17 y ) ... viewed 2848 times Chronic genital herpes and disclosure…. The influence of stigma
Itnl Jf STD & AIDS, Sept 2007;18(9): 589-592 Bickford J.
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/rsm/std/2007/00000018/00000009/art00002
The objectives of this study were to assess the nature and effect of stigma
on disclosure of diagnosis to sexua| partners among those with problematic
disease. Data from questionnaires and semistructured interviews were
collected and analysed. Data regarding anxiety were also collected using a
validated tool. Ethical approval was received from the Chelsea and
Westminster Healthcare National Health Service (NHS) Trust. Disclosure of
diagnosis tended to occur in the context of established relationships.
Herpes-related stigma was associated with non-disclosure of diagnosis to
sexual partners. The point prevalence of moderate to severe anxiety in this
sample was 32%. The use of suppressive medication did not affect anxiety
scores. In conclusion, the reaction to a diagnosis of genital herpes is
influenced by a socially constructed understanding and the decision to
disclose or not is influenced by this. Stigma is a barrier to disclosure of
genital herpes diagnosis. Management strategies aimed at encouraging
disclosure to partners must address perceived stigma.
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