How do women living with genital herpes and/or HPV (human papillomavirus) infections see themselves as sexual beings, and what choices do they make about sexual health issues? Adina Nack, a medical sociologist who specializes in sexual health and social psychology, conducted in-depth interviews with 43 women about their identities and sexuality with regard to chronic illness.

The result is a fascinating book about an issue that affects millions around the world, but is all too little discussed. “Damaged Goods?” adds to our knowledge of how women are affected by living with chronic STDs and reveals the stages of their sexual self-transformation. From the anxiety of being diagnosed with an STD to issues of blame and shame, Nack – herself diagnosed with a cervical HPV infection – shows why these women, feeling that they are “damaged goods,” question future relationships, marriage, and their ability to have healthy children.

As a mother of a young woman living with HPV, this book helped me understand her feelings and fears. Whether your daughter is 13 or 30, this is a must read for parents. After sharing this book ,we were able to sit down and begin a dialogue. Her mood swings and anger that had been directed at me were really symptoms of her trying to cope with her diagnosis. I didn’t realize how alone and “damaged” my daughter felt. Our relationship is so much stronger now. herpes

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with one of these STDs, then this is the first book to read! It’s detailed, without being too academic. The women’s stories are compelling, and the author really makes you think about how harmful those stereotypes about STDs can be, especially those about the types of women who get STDs. I also appreciated the author’s honesty in revealing her own struggles with HPV.

More information at Damaged Goods?: Women Living With Incurable Sexually Transmitted Diseases