Herpes Type 1 and Type 2 Testing
How we test for Oral and Genital Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)
We use FDA-approved type-specific herpes tests that search for antibodies to each strain of the herpes virus. These individual tests can differentiate between HSV-1 (typically oral herpes) and HSV-2 (typically genital herpes). The test uses only a blood sample, so there is no uncomfortable swabbing or undressing.
All laboratory testing, including STD tests, accuracy rates are measured in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Our herpes type 1 test has a sensitivity rate of 96% and a specificity of 97%, and our herpes type 2 test has a sensitivity rate of 97% and a specificity of 98%.
Herpes I & II
Testing Process
5 Minute
Testing processSample Required
Small Blood SampleResults
Ready in 1-2 daysMore Information About Oral and Genital Herpes Testing
Does this herpes test use a blood or urine sample?
Our herpes test panel uses a blood sample. There is no undressing or uncomfortable swabbing necessary.
What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
No fasting or preparation is necessary for herpes testing.
When is the right time to test for herpes?
Our doctors recommend testing for herpes type 1 and type 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) 4-6 weeks after initial exposure. Getting tested for oral and genital herpes should be a part of your routine STD screening if you have had unprotected oral sex or have come in contact with HSV-1 or HSV-2 infected fluids such as saliva or semen.
What will the test results say?
If your results are negative for both herpes tests, there are no signs of oral or genital herpes in your body. If positive, one or both strains of herpes (whether type 1 or type 2) is in your bloodstream. Your results will tell you which strain or strains you have. It is possible to have both of these strains of the herpes virus at the same time.
Can oral or genital herpes be cured or treated?
No. There is no cure for these strains of the herpes virus, but it is possible to manage symptoms with antiviral drugs. These drugs do not rid the body of the virus, they help control outbreaks and prevent transmission of herpes to your partner.
Who should get herpes testing?
Oral Herpes is a fairly common STD and anyone who has had unprotected oral sex or come in contact with infected bodily fluids needs testing. Since Herpes-1 symptoms do not always show up, it is important to get tested even when you do not see signs that you may have been infected.
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.
When Is The Right Time To Test For Herpes Type 1 and Type 2?
Now is the best time to test for oral and genital herpes, especially if you are sexually active. Know your sexual health status today.
If you had recent oral sex or intercourse with someone whose STD status you do not know, it is important to get tested for herpes type 1 and type 2. Our doctors recommend testing 4-6 weeks after exposure for accurate results. If you believe you have been exposed to either herpes strain, it is advisable to re-test after 3 months to confirm an earlier result, especially if it was negative.
Also if you have not been tested for other STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV-1, HIV-2, hepatitis A, B and C, or herpes-1 in the last year, our doctors recommend taking the all-inclusive 10-test Panel to ensure that you are completely STD free.
We also offer a chlamydia-gonorrhea test panel. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are known as co-existing infections, meaning that having one infection may put you at risk of having the other.
For answers to your questions about testing for oral herpes (HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2), call our Care Advisors at 1-800-456-2323
Our Service Includes:
Same labs trusted by physicians and hospitals in your area
Sent to your email as soon as they are available
If your test result is positive, you can speak with one of our doctors
Our trained Care Advisors are available over the phone or online to answer your questions
With our 4,500 testing centers nationwide, your sample collection is easy and convenient
We care about your privacy and treat your health information with confidentiality
What happens if you test positive for Herpes I & II?
If you test positive for Herpes I & II, our doctors are available for a phone consultation. They will answer any questions you might have about your test results, discuss available treatments and prescribe medications for your Herpes I & II infection at their discretion. You can also call or chat live with our Care Advisors 24/7.
We are here for you. Call us at 1-800-456-2323
Overall Patient Rating
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Very quick and easy. I went to the lab the same day and was in and out in 5 minutes. I received my results in 24 hours.
10 Test Panel
No Long Delays - Testing usually takes a few minutes and your results are available within 1-2 days.
No Surprises - No hidden fees, no extra charges.
- HIV Type 1
- Herpes 1
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis C
- Gonorrhea
- HIV Type 2
- Herpes 2
- Hepatitis B
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis