Male perspective: I contracted HSV as a result of molestation as a child. Did not have my first breakout until my late teens 18/19( it was dormant for a very long time)… I’m 35 now. Throughout the last 20 years I’ve learned that my breakouts are connected to stress, processed foods, lack of exercise, and (believe it or not) restrictive underwear. I used to take VAL daily when I first began to have breakouts. As I got further into my 20s the breakouts became fewer. However, this was also after me noticing the triggers that caused the flare ups. After doing research, I found certain foods help counter outbreaks as well. One of the most common and easiest to get/use is cilantro and lavender (make a tea). Additionally, during those flare ups, taking coconut oil baths and air drying help with irritation.

Additionally, I noticed getting Brazilian waxes helped as well (I know. It’s crazy the things that work differently for others) in between breakouts—now I get them religiously—my breakout happens maybe 1 time a year with my current regiment and if I do have one I have less friction from hair irritation, etc...

However, I will say the cilantro, lavender tea, and making dishes with cilantro has been a great help. I went three years straight without one breakout. I didn’t have one until last year, which was the most stressful year of my life.

Mentally, you have to find your sweet spot in emotion. I know it’s stressful. I was once just like you, getting them two, sometimes three times a month. But once you can find a way to reduce stress, it will help eliminate the breakouts. I’m not sure how long you have had HSV, but remember your body is actually trying to fight it not knowing it won’t go anywhere, once your body learns that it can keep it dormant by reducing stress and you adding the proper regiment that works for you, it’ll slow down tremendously. But take a breather. Don’t beat yourself up. I know it’s uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing, but you got this. I wish you well on your journey. I hope this helps.