We get this question a lot.  If you have HSV-1, does that mean you’re going to get genital outbreaks?  And what does it mean if you get a positive test result for Herpes 1 (HSV-1) and a negative result for HSV-2?  Okay…let’s break it down.  HSV-1 is super common and is often associated with cold sores.  More than half the adults in America have HSV-1.  HSV-2, also common, is most frequently associated with rashes down below.  But…and here’s the tricky part.  HSV-1 can cause genital symptoms but it’s less likely to cause frequent, recurrent outbreaks.  The HerpeSelect test that we offer is a type-specific test. That means you can know which HSV type you may be dealing with.

A note about your negative test result for HSV-2.  HerpeSelect detects antibodies to HSV so if you just had an unsafe exposure yesterday, the antibodies will not have formed.  Practice safe sex and get tested again in 3 months to confirm your negative result.

Have a Herpes question?  Ask away or call our counselors for a free consultation!