This test screens for herpes, an STD that can cause painful sores around the mouth or genitals. The test checks for both types of herpes: herpes type-1 most often causes oral herpes and herpes type-2 most often causes genital herpes, although herpes type-1 is responsible for an increasing proportion of genital infections. Although there is no cure for herpes, treatment can help relieve the symptoms and prevent future episodes.
What is tested?
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are 2 different viral infections that may cause oral or genital herpes. HSV-1 is most often responsible for oral herpes (cold sores) but can spread to the genitals through oral sex. HSV-2 is most often responsible for genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection that may lead to multiple painful ulcers on or around the genitals, rectum, or mouth. People with HSV may never have symptoms, which makes it very easy to spread from person to person.
There is no cure for oral or genital herpes, but there are treatment options that can help shorten or prevent outbreaks. Taking medication as prescribed may also reduce the chance of spreading HSV to other people. If left untreated, you may continue to experience symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms
People with HSV often do not have symptoms, which makes it easy to pass the virus to other people. Those who do have symptoms may see blisters around the mouth, genitals, or rectum around 2 to 6 weeks after being exposed.
Symptoms may include:
Eligibility
The Herpes Test is for anyone who is sexually active. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can pass an STD along to another person without knowing. You must be 18 years old or older to purchase.
Preparing For Your Test
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for the sample collection. Fasting is not required for this test.
Confirming Test
If HSV results are abnormal, confirmation testing is performed on the sample you have already provided, as required by standard diagnostic guidelines.
After The Test
When your results are ready, we will send them to you in a clear, easy-to-read report. You will have the option to speak with an independent physician to discuss your results. If your results differ from the expected ranges, you may receive an alert call to inform you.
