Does this genital herpes test use blood or urine?
We use a blood test called the Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) test, which looks for antibodies to the
herpes virus.
What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
No fasting or preparation is necessary for the HSV-2 test.
When is the right time to test for genital herpes?
There is no right time to get tested for genital herpes, since everybody creates antibodies at different
rates. Although it is possible to detect herpes-2 as early as 3 weeks after exposure, it is recommended to wait 4-6
weeks after being exposed. If you test negative, it is advisable to test again in three months to confirm the
initial test results.
What will the test results say?
If your results are negative, there are no signs of genital herpes. If positive, genital herpes was
found. Although CLIA tests are reliable, "false positives" are possible due to the low occurrence of the HSV-2
virus in some populations.
Test results for herpes fall within a numeric range. If your test returns a value of 0.91 or below you are
negative. A value of 1.09 or above is a positive. See additional test results and what they mean at our
We use a blood test called the Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) test, which looks for antibodies to the herpes virus.No fasting or preparation is necessary for the HSV-2 test.There is no right time to get tested for genital herpes, since everybody creates antibodies at different rates. Although it is possible to detect herpes-2 as early as 3 weeks after exposure, it is recommended to wait 4-6 weeks after being exposed. If you test negative, it is advisable to test again in three months to confirm the initial test results.If your results are negative, there are no signs of genital herpes. If positive, genital herpes was found. Although CLIA tests are reliable, "false positives" are possible due to the low occurrence of the HSV-2 virus in some populations. Test results for herpes fall within a numeric range. If your test returns a value of 0.91 or below you are negative. A value of 1.09 or above is a positive. See additional test results and what they mean at our STD Test Results Sample page.
Can genital herpes be cured or treated?
Genital herpes is not curable but can be treated and managed. Current antiviral medications can prevent symptoms,
shorten the duration of outbreaks, and reduce the likelihood of transmitting the genital herpes virus.
Who needs genital herpes test?
According to the CDC, HSV-2 infection is more common among women because the infection is more easily transmitted
from men to women. Women who have had recent encounters with someone who is infected with genital herpes (HSV-2)
should get tested. Infections can be transmitted through contact with genital or oral secretions, lesions, and
mucosal surfaces.