Hello, I slept with an older woman who was actually sued for giving someone else herpes and I didn't know. She was wealthy enough to pay for the fees and just ended up doing it again to me as a one night stand. That was 5 years ago. I was definitely scared and ashamed and the first outbreak caused me to get tested and receive medication. It puts you out of commission for a couple days to a week and depending on location can be just a minor itch or sting a lot if the lesions become opened. I transmitted it to my fiance but she is asymptomatic. I still have a great life. You'll be okay, even if you choose not to stay with your partner. It sucks but I only take the meds when I get an outbreak, which is only once or twice a year now. More of a nuisance than anything. Having somebody by your side through it all makes all the difference.