How to Tell People You Have It?

I was diagnosed 20 yrs ago. For several years, I don't date so I didn't have to tell anyone. But one day, I realized I felt alone. My mom and I went to a restaurant where I met an older man. I wasn't attracted to him physically, but his personality was lively and I so needed that in my life. He asked for my number and I actually gave it to him. The first time we talked on the phone, I decided to just tell him. I felt like I had nothing to lose. And you know what?? He didn't care, he still wanted to spend time with me. And we had a lot of fun together. He helped me to break the icy walls I'd built. Then, I started associating with a guy I'd gone to school with, but I didn't tell him because we were from the same place and I thought he already knew because everyone did (my trust had been betrayed from the very beginning). He and I were sexual, but I didn't tell him. Some time after that, I met another guy, and he wasn't okay with it. I told him that I understood, because I did. I met another guy, and because he was so persistent to get with me, he kinda was took advantage of a drunken night and initiated a sexual relationship. After 4 months, I told him. He was a little upset, more hurt than anything, but we continued our friendship for 4 yrs. Then, I met another guy who I told directly after I met him. He cried. We were together for 10 yrs, but never official. So I found out yesterday, from talking on the phone to the guy I went to school with, he never knew I had an STD. I told him because we were starting to connect again and it came up in conversation. I think I scared him at first, but after I explained things he said he wasn't mad at me. Idk if he'll ever sleep with me again though, and he has that right. I just wish I had told him right away and didn't make assumptions because I feel robbed that my sons' father wasn't honest with me when I contracted it from him.... I just let them know I have something to tell them, and it's up to them what they do next. Then I just say I have an STD. They ask me what I have, and the conversation goes on from there. Normally, I'm nervous beforehand, but this time I'm nervous afterwards. I like being nervous beforehand better, because once the questions start it takes the edge off. Being nervous afterwards??? You just have to wait for God knows how long for them to say God knows what! 😩 The conversation makes it easier.

Great question, I haven't told anyone yet (I just found out in Nov). I did join a dating site briefly specifically for individuals with hsv2, so that eliminated the need to tell anyone. But I guess in the future if I start dating again, I'd just be upfront and let them know.