This topic is about a 34-year-old person who has ulcerative colitis and a colostomy, and is interested in dating a woman who has genital herpes (HSV-2) and is on suppressive therapy. The person is curious about whether contracting HSV-2 would pose any special health risks for someone with a stoma.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Every relationship comes with some health risks, but it's important to balance these against the risk of loneliness and the value of love.

2. To manage the risk of HSV-2 transmission:
- Use condoms consistently and avoid intercourse during active outbreaks.
- HSV-2 is highly contagious when lesions are present, so avoid touching open blisters or sores.

3. Medical treatments that can help include:
- Acyclovir, which is a first-line antiviral for HSV-2 suppression and outbreaks.
- Betadine antiseptic cleanser can be used externally when no active lesions are present, as an added precaution, but it is not a substitute for condoms.

4. Regarding health impact, HSV-2 is generally not life-threatening. There is no direct evidence suggesting it would worsen colitis or affect stoma function, though standard precautions for anyone with HSV-2 should still be followed.

5. If the relationship feels right, proceed with proper protection and informed consent.