Herpes. Yep. We said it out loud. A word that can trigger panic, shame spirals, and frantic Googling… but what if we told you it's also extremely common, very misunderstood, and not the relationship-ending disaster pop culture makes it out to be?

In this episode of Labia Logic, Dr. Ashley Fuller and Dr. Meredith McClure tell us why herpes happens. And also why it should come with way less stigma than it does.

Ashley and Meredith explain the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2, how transmission actually works, and why routine herpes screening isn't recommended, even when you're begging your doctor to "test me for everything."

You'll learn how herpes is diagnosed correctly, why antivirals like valacyclovir are effective and low-drama, how to reduce outbreaks and transmission, and what to know about dating, disclosure, pregnancy, and newborn safety.

Herpes is manageable, common, and absolutely not a moral failing—just a skin virus with a wildly overinflated reputation. From myths to medicine, this episode delivers relief, realism, and a much-needed dose of Labia Logic.

More about the hosts of Labia Logic: Dr. Ashley Fuller is a Sexual Medicine Gynecologist and Vulvar Specialist in Seattle, WA.

www.ashleyfullermd.com

Dr. Meredith McClure is a Menopause Specialist, Sexual Medicine Gynecologist, and Vulvar Specialist in Dallas, TX.

www.meredithmccluremd.com

Follow the show on Instagram @labia_logic