Understanding Herpes Outbreaks: Frequency, Duration, and Triggers
Statistical outliers exist when it comes to frequency and duration of herpes outbreaks.
Data tells us that after the first year, typically, herpes outbreaks decrease in frequency and duration (ASHA, 2022).
Statistics are empowering and are one of the best sources of education for ourselves and our partners, however, they’re not always finite.
Outbreaks can be triggered by many things (stress, sunlight, alcohol, etc.), and that varies by each person.
Personally, I am usually someone who is largely asymptomatic. However, during the past year I’ve experienced more outbreaks than I have since being diagnosed seven years ago. I attribute this to the immense amounts of stress I faced this year.
I share this as a reminder that we experience change throughout our lives and our bodies respond to those changes in meaningful ways. Herpes outbreaks don’t signal “bad” or poor behavior, they’re reminders from your body to check-in and slow down.