Herpes Test

Tell me about herpes testing.
Our doctors have selected the type-specific Herpes Blood Test, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which can tell the difference between type 1 herpes (HSV-1) and type 2 herpes (HSV-2). The test looks for the antibodies to the herpes virus. If you get tested before there are enough antibodies to detect, you may get a “false negative” result even if you have herpes.

Is this a Blood Test or a Urine Test?
The Herpes Test is a blood test. When you get to the lab, the lab technician will draw one small tube of blood. There's no need to get undressed or have any uncomfortable swabbing.

Will I Need to Fast or Prepare for the Test?
There is no preparation needed for the Herpes Blood Test. You do not need to fast.

Who Should Be Tested for Herpes?
It is recommended that people who have a high risk of coming in contact with the virus should test for herpes. With 58% of Americans testing positive for type 1 herpes, odds are you've been exposed at some point, even if you've never had any symptoms. Also, with one out of every six people ages 14 - 49 having genital type 2 herpes, you may have it without knowing it. Consider herpes testing as part of routine STD screening, especially if you have had unprotected sex with someone whose STD status you do not know or are concerned about.

Is Herpes Treatable?
There is no cure or vaccine for herpes, but antiviral drugs can effectively manage symptoms. While these drugs do not rid the body of the herpes virus, they do help to control it...reducing symptoms, reducing the risk of spreading herpes to your partner and even suppressing the virus to prevent outbreaks.

What Will the Test Results Tell Me?
A positive result for herpes 1 means the test found signs of type 1 herpes, but it doesn't show where that infection is located. Most commonly, type 1 herpes is found around the mouth, but it can be located genitally, spread via oral sex.

A positive for herpes 2 means the test found signs of type 2 herpes, but it doesn't tell us whether or not you've ever had, or will ever have, a genital herpes outbreak.

The test results for herpes fall within a numeric range, which can be a bit confusing. A value of 0.9 or less is negative. A value above 1.1 is positive, though a very low level positive could be a false positive.

Learn more about the Herpes Test

For routine STD testing to know your sexual health status, test today.

Although herpes may be detected as early as 3 weeks after exposure, it is recommended waiting 4-6 weeks after an exposure for the most accurate results. If you had a definite exposure and your earlier test is negative, you might consider a repeat test 3 months after exposure to be sure there is no infection.

Remember, other STDs may be present at the same time as herpes. For this reason, our doctors recommend the 8-test panel to test for 8 of the most common and serious STDs.

For a personalized test plan, call our Care Advisors at (866) 660-2593(866) 660-2593. Because different diseases become detectable by diagnostic testing at different times, this is the best way to ensure you get tested at the right time.