The first modern dating app for people living with STDs and chronic conditions. Launching first in California & British Columbia.
Not in CA or BC? Sign up anyway — your city tells us where to launch next.
Source: CDC, WHO
After a diagnosis, the hardest part isn't the condition itself — it's the fear of rejection. The anxiety of disclosure. The feeling that you've been removed from the dating pool entirely. And the platforms that exist to help? They charge up to $34/month just to send a message, run on outdated technology from 2005, and treat their users like a niche to exploit rather than people to serve.
I was diagnosed with HSV-2 three years ago. I haven't been on a date since. Not because I couldn't — because I was afraid of the conversation.
— User research participant, 28F, New York
Vela exists so this conversation happens in a space of understanding, not judgment.
A modern dating experience built around empathy, honesty, and genuine human connection.
Granular controls — show your status to everyone, matches only, or nobody.
Every user passes face verification. No bots, no catfish, no fake profiles.
Private AI support for disclosure conversations, dating anxiety, and everything in between.
Share photos on your terms. Private album requests keep you in control.
Filter by condition, relationship intent, age, and distance to find your people.
Create your account with email. Verify your face (no bots allowed).
Add photos, your bio, conditions (optional), and what you're looking for.
Swipe through real, verified profiles. Match, chat, and connect.
Built different from legacy platforms.
| Feature | Vela | PS | MPWH |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free messaging | Yes | No | No |
| Modern UX / mobile-first | Yes | No | No |
| Face verification | Yes | No | No |
| AI emotional support | Yes | No | No |
| Condition privacy controls | Yes | No | No |
| Premium price / mo | $11.50 | $34 | $30 |
Premium enhances your experience. Matching and messaging are included for everyone.
Matching and messaging are included for everyone. Premium unlocks unlimited likes, AI Avatar Studio, read receipts, and AI Companion.
Three tiers: show to everyone, matches only, or nobody. You decide who sees what.
Every user is verified. No fake profiles, no bots, no catfish. Real people only.
Your health information is encrypted at rest and in transit. Always.
FaceID and fingerprint to open the app. No one else gets in.
Push notifications that reveal nothing. Your privacy extends beyond the app.
A dating app that treats its users like humans. We believe everyone deserves connection — your status doesn't define you. Affordable, private, and built with care.
Every detail considered. A dating experience crafted around empathy, honesty, and dignity.
Granular controls — show your status to everyone, matches only, or nobody.
Every user passes face verification. No bots, no catfish, no fake profiles.
Private AI support for disclosure conversations, dating anxiety, and everything in between.
Join the waitlist for early access. Launching first in California & British Columbia — Spring 2026.
Not in CA or BC? Sign up anyway — your city helps us decide where to launch next.