Another chronic sexually transmitted virus is herpes. Here you will meet Mark, who has had herpes for 23 years. Mark has learned to live with his STI, keeping track of outbreaks over the years, and participating in new research studies and drug treatments. As he is interviewed about the progress of his infection, he describes how drug management has reduced his outbreaks but will never getting rid of the disease.

Is it possible to have a sex life with a chronic STI? Mark has one, and describes how he communicates with each partner about his situation. It has at times been a problem in relationships, but he always makes sure he has "the conversation".

Please watch the following video clip and answer the corresponding ollow-up questions.

Herpes

1			Mark has had herpes for most of his adult life. What kinds of coping mechanisms does he use for living with his STI? Does having an STI -- and discussing it with potential partners -- affect his self-esteem?
2			Mark mentions he has been in the prodrome of a herpes outbreak. What kinds of symptoms is he experiencing at the time of the interview?