You’re NOT alone.
There are millions of people just like you.
About Us
Founded in 2016, DSMHSV is Iowa’s largest herpes support group. Due to the lack of support and information in the central Iowa area, DSMHSV was born.
We strive to be a group who provides support as well as accurate information about herpes. Misinformation and stigma surround this diagnosis and we hope to help you understand and manage this extremely common skin condition.
Events are scheduled regularly and are 100% free to it’s members. Get your life back- Contact us for more information!
What’s New
***Results are in!***
What do the people of Des Moines want from DSMHSV?
Herpes isn’t who you are – It’s something you have.
This video really hits the spot. This woman is so brave and inspirational! Herpes has so many stereotypes associated with it – even I was guilty of… Read more “Herpes isn’t who you are – It’s something you have.”
What are you looking for?
Tell us what you want in your local support group!
Testimonials
I’m so happy I found this group. After my diagnosis, I was devastated. I was alone and scared. My doctor gave me literally no information- only a prescription and a “Sorry.” After joining the group, I feel like a person again.
Trusted Resources
Below are a few sites we trust for accurate information regarding herpes.
- PROJECT ACCEPT – http://projectaccept.org/
- ASHA – http://www.ashasexualhealth.org/ (American Sexual Health Association)
- WESTOVER HEIGHTS CLINIC – http://westoverheights.com/
- CDC – http://www.cdc.gov/ (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- NIH – http://www.nih.gov/ (National Institutes of Health)
- MEDLINE PLUS – https://medlineplus.gov/
- NZ HERPES FOUNDATION – https://www.herpes.org.nz/
The FACTS
- Herpes simplex causes a viral skin condition known as cold sores (on face), whitlows (on fingers) or ‘herpes’ on genitals or other skin areas.
- As many as one in three adults have the virus that causes genital herpes.
- Around 80% of people infected with genital herpes don’t know they have the virus because they have very mild symptoms or none at all.
- Over 50% of people who have genital herpes get it from people who are entirely unaware that they have herpes themselves.
- The emotional impact of being diagnosed with genital herpes is often much worse than the condition itself.
- Oral herpes, also known as “cold sores”, is commonly transmitted to the genitals through oral/genital contact. Up to 50% of genital herpes is caused by the oral type of herpes simplex.
- There is effective treatment available if herpes symptoms are problematic.
- The symptoms of genital herpes vary enormously. It can show up as blisters or sores, but it can also just produce a mild rash. Whatever symptoms do appear may be on the thighs, back, fingers, and of course the genitals.
- The herpes virus can be passed on when there are no symptoms present.
- Most people who infect others with herpes don’t realize they are putting their partners at risk.
- Using condoms reduces the risk of passing on the herpes virus, but doesn’t completely eliminate it.
- Daily medication can prevent recurrences of the herpes virus and reduce the risk of transmission to partners.
- Having genital herpes is not associated with causing cervical cancer.
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