Herpes is a condition transmitted via skin-to-skin contact. It affects mucosal surfaces like the mouth and around the g******s, and skin in other parts of the body. For most people, however, it is viewed as nothing but a sexually transmitted infection brought about by unprotected sex and promiscuity – and this got to change.   To help us veer away from this stigma and understand the condition more, I invited Laureen Herve Dupenher to the podcast. Laureen has herpes and she unpacks the truth about the condition, living with it, and all its details through her YouTube Channel Laureen HD.     She joins the podcast to provide an overview of the basics and some hot topics. So, listen up to this episode and learn about: Her YouTube channel and the types of content she produces. (02:29) The basics of herpes transmission and susceptibility. (04:12) The best type of protection against herpes. (09:36) Discerning between actual symptoms and the paranoia of the symptoms and transmission. (12:49) Being diagnosed with herpes and her journey with the condition. (16:46) Managing expectations and practicing transparency with partners. (22:36) Healing physically and psychologically from the trauma of contracting herpes. (31:27) Moving towards acceptance, regaining self-confidence, and shared responsibility between partners. (39:21) The statistics surrounding herpes. (47:23) People's responses and reactions upon disclosing that she has herpes. (50:45)   If you want to know more about Laureen and her experience, subscribe to her YouTube channel, Laureen HD. You can also stay updated with her via Instagram, and Facebook.   I’m hoping that this has been insightful for you as it has been for me. Coming from the previous episode that delved into testicular cancer and this one about herpes, I’m looking forward to the Intimate Lifestyle educating more people about the realities of sex-related health conditions. I urge you to share this episode with your network so more people get informed.   Thoughts, suggestions, or inquiries? Email me at ryan [at] theintimatelifestyle [dot] com. I make sure to read those – and respond if needed.   Remember to leave us a rating on iTunes.   And check out all the Sex Toys, Coaching, Courses and more at www.theintimatelifestyle.com/access.