Lena-Zaharah Mohammed

Melys Edwards describes the shame, pain and emotional distress she experienced after being diagnosed with genital herpes, a lifelong but manageable infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The article explains symptoms, transmission routes, differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2, global prevalence and the higher risk among women. Health experts stress that the condition is common, is not a moral failing and can often be managed with appropriate care. Condoms can reduce transmission risk, while people with symptoms are advised to seek medical testing, including HIV testing where appropriate. Edwards now uses her experience to challenge frightening misinformation online and raise awareness about the condition.

Genital herpes is a lifelong infection caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2 that often causes no symptoms but can lead to painful blisters and sores. HSV-2 is more likely to recur and is associated with a higher risk of HIV acquisition, while genital HSV-1 can commonly be transmitted through oral sex. Diagnosis is made by testing fluid from a lesion, and outbreaks can often be managed with antiviral medication, pain relief, and lifestyle measures. Condoms reduce transmission risk, and people with active symptoms are advised to avoid sexual contact. The article also highlights the significant psychological impact of diagnosis and the need to reduce shame and misinformation.

Melys Edwards, a 29-year-old yoga teacher and digital creator from Wrexham, describes the severe pain, shame and relationship difficulties that followed her genital herpes diagnosis. She now speaks publicly about the condition to challenge stigma, despite facing online abuse. Health experts say genital herpes is manageable for most people, but public understanding remains shaped by outdated fears; transmission risks increase during outbreaks, and testing is most effective soon after symptoms appear. Official figures recorded nearly 29,000 new diagnoses in England in 2025, while Wales recorded 913 first-episode diagnoses, though Welsh data is incomplete and likely underestimates the true prevalence. Clinicians also warn that sexual-health clinics lack sufficient capacity, and the Welsh Government says it is assessing needs for STI prevention, testing and treatment.

Melys Edwards, a yoga teacher and digital content creator from Wrexham, describes the severe pain, shame and relationship difficulties that followed her genital herpes diagnosis. After initially hiding behind sunglasses and finding frightening information online, she began speaking publicly about the condition, appearing on a Welsh reality show and using social media and performance to challenge stigma. Health experts say genital herpes is manageable for most people, though it is treatable rather than curable, can be transmitted through oral sex, and should not be passed on during active outbreaks. Official figures show nearly 29,000 new cases in England in 2025, while Wales recorded 913 first-episode diagnoses, although the Welsh data is incomplete and likely underreports the true prevalence. Experts also warn that testing is limited, most effective shortly after symptoms appear, and difficult to access because sexual health clinics face delays and capacity pressures.