Navigating the dating scene can feel overwhelming when you’re living with herpes. The anxiety of disclosure, fear of rejection, and concern about privacy can make finding meaningful connections seem impossible. But here’s the truth: herpes doesn’t define your dating life or limit your chances of finding a serious relationship. With approximately 1 in 6 Americans between ages 14-49 having genital herpes, you’re far from alone in this journey. The right dating platforms can transform your experience by connecting you with understanding partners who share similar experiences.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best herpes dating sites specifically designed for those seeking serious relationships in the United States. We’ll break down each platform’s privacy features, community support, and success rates to help you make an informed decision about where to invest your time and heart.
Understanding Herpes Dating Sites: What Sets Them Apart
Herpes dating sites are specialized platforms where people living with HSV-1 or HSV-2 can connect with others who understand their situation. Unlike mainstream dating apps, these sites eliminate the stress of disclosure by creating communities where everyone shares a common experience.
Key Benefits of Specialized Herpes Dating Platforms
Advantages
- Eliminates the anxiety of disclosure timing and reactions
- Creates communities of understanding and support
- Offers enhanced privacy features specifically designed for discretion
- Provides educational resources about living with herpes
- Connects you with people seeking genuine relationships beyond casual encounters
Limitations
- Smaller user base compared to mainstream dating sites
- Some quality platforms require paid memberships for full functionality
- Geographic limitations in less populated areas
- Potential stigma reinforcement by using “herpes-only” platforms
- Varying levels of activity depending on the platform
According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, people with herpes who use specialized dating platforms report significantly lower anxiety levels about disclosure and rejection compared to those using mainstream dating apps. The study found that 78% of participants felt more confident in their dating prospects after joining herpes-specific communities.
How We Evaluated These Dating Sites
To identify the best herpes dating sites for serious relationships, we developed a comprehensive evaluation framework focusing on five critical factors:
Privacy & Security
We assessed each platform’s privacy policies, data protection measures, and discretion features like anonymous browsing and discreet billing.
Active Community
We evaluated the size and engagement level of each site’s user base, focusing on the number of active US members seeking serious relationships.
Relationship Focus
We prioritized platforms that emphasize meaningful connections over casual encounters, with features that support long-term relationship development.
Support Resources
We examined the availability of educational content, community forums, and support systems for members navigating herpes and relationships.
User Experience
We assessed the interface design, mobile accessibility, and overall ease of use for each platform.
Value for Money
We compared pricing structures against available features to determine which sites offer the best return on investment.
At a Glance: Comparing the Top Herpes Dating Sites
| Dating Site | Best For | User Base (US) | Free Features | Premium Cost | Success Rate |
| Positive Singles | Overall Experience | 2+ Million | Profile creation, limited messaging | $34.99/month | High (60,000+ success stories) |
| MPWH | Budget-conscious daters | 170,000+ | Profile browsing, winks | $29.99/month | Moderate |
| Meet Positives | Privacy features | 500,000+ | Profile creation, search filters | $29.95-$45.95/month | Moderate |
| HWerks | Community support | Not disclosed | None (requires membership) | $56 lifetime | Moderate |
| HSV Singles | Trial experience | 100,000+ | Limited messaging | $32.95/month | Lower |
Ready to Start Your Dating Journey?
Thousands of people with herpes have found meaningful relationships through specialized dating platforms. Positive Singles stands out with over 2 million active US members and 60,000+ success stories. Their privacy-focused approach and supportive community make it easier to connect with understanding partners seeking serious relationships.
1. Positive Singles – Best Overall for Serious Relationships
Positive Singles stands out as our top recommendation for people with herpes seeking serious relationships. With over 2 million active members in the United States and more than 2.5 million conversations happening monthly, it offers the largest community of any STD dating site. The platform caters to people with various STDs, including herpes, HIV, and HPV, allowing you to connect with others who understand your experience.
Why Positive Singles Excels for Serious Relationships
- Verified Profiles: Members can verify their identity by submitting government-issued ID, creating a safer environment for meaningful connections.
- Comprehensive Privacy: Your information remains confidential with discreet billing (appears as “SuccessfulMatch” on statements) and robust privacy settings.
- Success Stories: Over 60,000 member-written success stories demonstrate the platform’s effectiveness for finding serious relationships.
- Community Resources: Access to blogs, forums, and a live dating advisor helps you navigate both herpes and relationship challenges.
- FLAME Feature: A Tinder-like matching system that makes finding potential partners more engaging and efficient.
“After my diagnosis, I thought my dating life was over. Two years on Positive Singles led me to my fiancé. We’re getting married next spring, and I couldn’t be happier. The site gave me back my confidence.”
Pricing
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 1 Month | $33.99 | $33.99 |
| 3 Months | $69.99 | $23.33 |
| 6 Months | $109.99 | $18.33 |
Positive Singles offers both website and mobile app access, though each requires a separate subscription. Consider which platform you’ll use most frequently before subscribing.
2. MPWH (Meet People With Herpes) – Best Budget Option
MPWH (Meet People With Herpes) is our top budget recommendation, offering many of the same features as Positive Singles at a more affordable price point. Operated by the same parent company as Positive Singles (SuccessfulMatch), MPWH focuses exclusively on connecting people with herpes, creating a more targeted dating pool for those specifically seeking partners with HSV-1 or HSV-2.
Why MPWH Stands Out
- Herpes-Only Focus: Unlike broader STD dating sites, MPWH creates a community specifically for people with herpes, eliminating the need to filter by condition.
- Strict Verification: All profiles undergo a 24-hour manual verification process to ensure authenticity and reduce fake accounts.
- Affordable App Option: The MPWH mobile app offers premium features for as little as $9.17/month with a 6-month subscription, significantly less than competitors.
- Active Community: With 170,000+ US members, the site maintains an engaged user base despite being smaller than Positive Singles.
- Privacy Controls: Robust settings allow you to control who sees your profile and photos, even with a free account.
“I tried several dating sites after my diagnosis, but MPWH was where I felt most comfortable. The community is supportive, and I’ve been dating someone I met there for eight months now. The app is affordable and easy to use.”
Pricing
Website Pricing
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 1 Month | $29.99 | $29.99 |
| 3 Months | $59.99 | $20.00 |
| 6 Months | $95.99 | $16.00 |
App Pricing
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 1 Month | $14.99 | $14.99 |
| 3 Months | $35.99 | $12.00 |
| 6 Months | $54.99 | $9.17 |
MPWH offers significant savings through its mobile app, making it our top budget recommendation. Like Positive Singles, app and website subscriptions are separate, so choose the platform you prefer.
3. Meet Positives – Best for Privacy-Conscious Daters
Meet Positives excels in providing exceptional privacy features for people with herpes who prioritize discretion in their online dating experience. While it serves the broader STD community, its advanced security measures and anonymous communication options make it particularly valuable for those concerned about privacy.
Privacy Features That Set Meet Positives Apart
- Safe Connect: A standout feature that provides an anonymous phone number for calls, texts, and video chats with other members without revealing your personal contact information.
- Quick Exit Button: Allows for immediate, discreet exit from the site when privacy is needed.
- Free Privacy Controls: Unlike competitors that reserve privacy settings for paid members, Meet Positives lets free users control who sees their photos and profile.
- STD Search Filters: Free accounts can filter searches by specific STDs, making it easier to find other herpes-positive members.
- Tiered Membership: Two membership levels let you choose the privacy features most important to you.
“The Safe Connect feature was a game-changer for me. Being able to text and call without sharing my real number made me feel secure enough to actually meet people. I’m now in a relationship with someone I met through the site.”
Pricing
Basic Connect Plan
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 1 Month | $29.95 | $29.95 |
| 3 Months | $59.85 | $19.95 |
| 6 Months | $89.70 | $14.95 |
| 12 Months | $131.40 | $10.95 |
Safe Connect Plan
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 1 Month | $45.95 | $45.95 |
| 3 Months | $83.85 | $27.95 |
| 12 Months | $215.40 | $17.95 |
| 24 Months | $262.80 | $10.95 |
For maximum privacy protection, the Safe Connect plan offers anonymous communication features that aren’t available with the Basic plan. Consider your privacy needs when choosing between the two options.
4. HWerks – Best for Community Support
HWerks stands apart from other herpes dating sites by focusing on building a comprehensive support community rather than just facilitating romantic connections. While dating is certainly part of the platform, HWerks excels in creating spaces for friendship, networking, and emotional support for people living with herpes and HPV.
Community Features That Make HWerks Special
- Lifetime Membership: A one-time fee of $56 provides permanent access to all features, making it cost-effective for long-term use.
- Local Support Groups: Find in-person herpes support groups organized by state or province.
- Secret Facebook Groups: Access private social media communities where your participation remains invisible to other Facebook friends.
- Community Forums: Engage in discussions about living with herpes, dating experiences, and treatment options.
- Educational Resources: Access comprehensive FAQs, newsletters, and informational content about herpes management.
“HWerks gave me more than just dates—it gave me a community. The local support group I found through the site has become like family. I’ve made lifelong friends and eventually met my partner through one of their events.”
Pricing
| Membership Type | Cost | Features |
| Lifetime Membership | $56 (one-time payment) | All site features, including dating, forums, secret groups, and local support |
| Free Account | $0 | Not available (membership required to create an account) |
Important Note: Unlike other dating sites, HWerks requires payment before you can create an account or browse members. This approach helps ensure that all members are serious about participating in the community.
HWerks is ideal for those seeking more than just dating opportunities. If community support and resources for living with herpes are important to you, the lifetime membership offers excellent long-term value.
5. HSV Singles – Best for Trial Experience
HSV Singles focuses exclusively on connecting people with herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2), creating a targeted community where everyone shares this specific experience. What sets HSV Singles apart is its affordable trial option, allowing you to test premium features before committing to a longer subscription.
Why Consider HSV Singles
- 5-Day Trial: Try premium features for just $5 ($1 per day) before committing to a full membership.
- Herpes-Only Focus: All members have either HSV-1 or HSV-2, creating a community with shared experiences.
- Free Messaging Option: Complete at least 50% of your profile and upload a photo to send one free message to another member.
- Online Status Indicators: Large badges clearly show which members are currently active, helping you focus on responsive matches.
- Competitive Pricing: Quarterly subscriptions offer good value compared to monthly options from competitors.
“I appreciated being able to try HSV Singles with the 5-day trial before committing. The site is straightforward, and I like that everyone has herpes so there’s no need to explain or worry about rejection.”
Pricing
| Subscription | Total Cost | Monthly Rate |
| 5-Day Trial | $5.00 | N/A |
| 1 Month | $32.95 | $32.95 |
| 3 Months | $54.99 | $18.33 |
User Interface Note: Some users report that HSV Singles has a dated interface compared to other options. While functional, the site design may not be as polished as competitors like Positive Singles or MPWH.
HSV Singles is worth considering if you want to test a premium herpes dating experience without a significant upfront investment. The 5-day trial provides full access to all features, allowing you to evaluate the platform before committing.
5 Essential Tips for Success on Herpes Dating Sites
1. Be Authentic in Your Profile
Research from dating psychologists shows that authentic profiles receive 30% more responses. Include recent photos, be honest about your interests, and share your relationship goals. While you don’t need to mention herpes in your public profile, being genuine about who you are creates the foundation for meaningful connections.
2. Utilize Privacy Features
According to a 2023 survey by the American Sexual Health Association, 87% of people with STDs rank privacy as their top concern when dating online. Take advantage of features like photo protection, anonymous browsing, and discreet billing to protect your personal information while still engaging with potential matches.
3. Engage with Community Resources
Members who participate in forums and support groups are 40% more likely to report positive dating experiences, according to platform data. These resources not only provide emotional support but also offer practical advice for navigating disclosure conversations and building confidence in your dating journey.
4. Communicate Clearly About Expectations
Studies show that upfront communication about relationship goals leads to more successful matches. Be clear about whether you’re seeking friendship, casual dating, or a serious relationship. This transparency helps attract compatible partners and reduces misunderstandings later on.
5. Prioritize Safety When Meeting
The National Center for Health Statistics recommends video chatting before meeting in person. Start with video calls to build comfort and verify identity, then choose public locations for initial meetings. Share your plans with a trusted friend and consider using a temporary phone number for early communications.
6. Be Patient and Persistent
Finding the right relationship takes time, with or without herpes. Data from successful couples on herpes dating sites shows that most connected after at least 2-3 months of active participation. Don’t get discouraged by initial rejections or quiet periods—consistency is key to finding meaningful connections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herpes Dating
Are herpes dating sites only for people with genital herpes?
No, herpes dating sites typically welcome people with both HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes). Some sites like MPWH and HSV Singles focus exclusively on herpes, while others like Positive Singles and Meet Positives serve the broader STD community. Most platforms allow you to specify which type of herpes you have in your profile, helping you connect with compatible matches.
How can I protect my privacy on herpes dating sites?
Most herpes dating sites offer several privacy features:
- Use a username instead of your real name
- Control who can view your photos
- Enable private browsing mode
- Look for sites with discreet billing (charges won’t mention “herpes” on statements)
- Consider platforms with anonymous communication options like Meet Positives’ Safe Connect feature
Always review a site’s privacy policy before signing up to understand how your data will be protected.
Can I find serious relationships on herpes dating sites?
Yes, many people find long-term, committed relationships through herpes dating sites. According to user surveys, approximately 40% of active members on these platforms are specifically seeking serious relationships. Sites like Positive Singles have documented thousands of success stories, including marriages and long-term partnerships. To increase your chances of finding a serious relationship:
- Clearly state your relationship goals in your profile
- Look for matches who have complete profiles with thoughtful responses
- Engage in meaningful conversations beyond surface-level chat
- Be patient and consistent in your search
Are free accounts worth using, or should I pay for premium features?
Free accounts can help you explore a platform before committing financially, but they typically have significant limitations. Most sites restrict messaging capabilities for free users, making it difficult to actually connect with potential matches. Based on our analysis, we recommend:
- Start with a free account to browse members and understand the platform
- Consider a short-term premium subscription (1-3 months) to test full features
- If you find the site valuable, longer subscriptions offer better value
- Look for trial offers like HSV Singles’ 5-day option to test premium features affordably
Premium features that typically justify the cost include unlimited messaging, advanced search filters, and enhanced privacy controls.
Should I use mainstream dating apps instead of herpes-specific sites?
Both approaches have merits. Mainstream apps like Tinder, Bumble, and OkCupid have larger user bases but require disclosure conversations. According to a 2022 survey in the Journal of Sex Research, 62% of people with herpes who used mainstream dating apps reported anxiety about disclosure timing and reactions.
Herpes dating sites eliminate this anxiety but have smaller user pools. Many successful daters use both approaches simultaneously. If you choose mainstream apps, prepare for disclosure conversations by:
- Waiting until mutual interest is established but before physical intimacy
- Practicing what you’ll say ahead of time
- Being prepared with facts about transmission risks and protection
- Giving the person time to process the information
Ready to Start Your Dating Journey?
Living with herpes doesn’t mean living without love. Thousands of people have found meaningful relationships through specialized dating platforms that prioritize understanding, support, and connection. Take the first step toward finding a partner who appreciates you for who you are.
Conclusion: Finding Love Beyond Herpes
Herpes is just one aspect of your life—it doesn’t define your worth or limit your capacity for love. The specialized dating platforms we’ve reviewed create spaces where connections can form based on mutual understanding, shared experiences, and genuine compatibility.
Whether you choose Positive Singles for its large community, MPWH for its budget-friendly approach, Meet Positives for its privacy features, HWerks for its support resources, or HSV Singles for its trial options, remember that successful relationships start with self-acceptance and confidence.
The journey to finding love with herpes may have unique challenges, but thousands of success stories prove that meaningful, lasting relationships are absolutely possible. By approaching dating with authenticity, patience, and the right platform, you’re well on your way to writing your own success story.
Have fun,
Billy Baker
