Herpes Test (HSV-1 & HSV-2)

About this test

Key Benefits

Gain clarity and peace of mind regarding your HSV status with a discreet and reliable at-home testing solution. This test allows you to monitor your sexual health conveniently and receive accurate laboratory results.

• Confidential Testing: Collect your sample privately and receive results securely online.

• Comprehensive Screening: Detects antibodies for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, providing a broader overview of HSV exposure.

• Convenient and Easy: A simple dried blood spot collection can be performed at home.

• Proactive Health Monitoring: Testing can help you understand your status even without visible symptoms.

What This Test Measures

This Herpes Test measures IgG antibodies against Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2) in a blood sample.

IgG antibodies usually develop several weeks after infection and typically remain detectable long-term. Detecting these antibodies can indicate previous exposure to the virus, even when no active symptoms are present.

Understanding HSV-1 and HSV-2

• HSV-1: Most commonly associated with oral herpes, often causing cold sores, although it can also cause genital infections.

• HSV-2: More commonly associated with genital herpes infections.

Both viruses can sometimes be present without noticeable symptoms.

How It Works

1. Order Your Kit
   Purchase your test online and receive it delivered discreetly to your home.

2. Collect Your Sample
   Follow the instructions to collect a small finger-prick dried blood spot sample using the provided lancet.

3. Mail Your Sample
   Send your sample to our CLIA-certified laboratory using the prepaid return packaging.

4. Receive Digital Results
   Your results will typically be available in your secure online portal within a few business days after the laboratory receives your sample.

Who Should Consider This Test

This test may be relevant for individuals who want to screen for HSV exposure, including:

• Individuals without symptoms who want to understand their HSV status.

• People who want to monitor their sexual health proactively.

• Individuals seeking private testing from home.

• Partners who want to know their status before or during a relationship.

• Individuals planning a family who want to better understand potential health considerations.

Accuracy and Reliability

The GetTested Herpes Test uses laboratory methods designed to detect IgG antibodies associated with HSV infection.

All samples are analyzed in CLIA-certified laboratories, which follow strict quality standards to ensure reliable and accurate results.

Biomarkers included

• Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) IgG antibodies: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) IgG antibodies are proteins produced by your immune system in response to an HSV-1 infection. Their presence indicates a past exposure to the virus, as IgG antibodies typically develop weeks after initial infection and persist for life. Detecting these antibodies helps distinguish between current (acute) and past infections, informing diagnosis and management.
• Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) IgG antibodies: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) IgG antibodies are proteins produced by your immune system in response to an HSV-2 infection. The presence of these antibodies indicates past or current exposure to HSV-2, which is the primary cause of genital herpes. Detecting these antibodies helps diagnose an HSV-2 infection, even if no active symptoms are present.

How to prepare

No fasting is required for this test. For the most reliable results, we recommend collecting your sample at least 12 weeks after the last potential exposure, as herpes antibodies can take time to reach detectable levels. Please also follow the detailed collection instructions provided in your test kit.

Frequently asked questions

How does the GetTested Herpes Test (HSV-1 & HSV-2) work, and what does it measure?

The GetTested Herpes Test utilizes a dried blood spot (DBS) sample, collected discreetly at home, to accurately detect antibodies to the herpes simplex virus. Specifically, it measures immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, which indicate past exposure or infection. This convenient, privacy-focused method eliminates the need for clinic visits, providing reliable insights into your sexual health status.

Who should consider using the Herpes Test, and what are the benefits?

Individuals concerned about potential herpes exposure, those experiencing symptoms, or anyone seeking to understand their sexual health status can benefit from this panel. The primary advantages include its unmatched convenience for at-home testing, complete privacy, and the confidence that comes from using a CLIA-certified laboratory for processing. It empowers proactive health management by offering accessible and accurate results for early detection.

What is the sample collection process like, and how accurate are the results?

The sample collection involves a simple, at-home dried blood spot (DBS) method, which typically requires a small finger-prick blood sample. Our highly accurate testing processes are performed in CLIA-certified labs, ensuring the reliability and precision of your results for both HSV-1 IgG and HSV-2 IgG. Detailed instructions are provided to guide you through the painless collection process, ensuring sample integrity.

What is the turnaround time for results, and how will I interpret them?

Once your dried blood spot sample reaches our certified lab, results for your Herpes Panel are typically available within 2-5 business days. Your confidential results will be provided through a secure online portal, accompanied by clear interpretive guidance. Understanding your results, including nuances like the window period and what positive or negative IgG antibodies signify, is crucial for informed health decisions and next steps.

What is included with the purchase of the Herpes Test, and are there any hidden fees?

Your purchase includes the complete at-home dried blood spot collection kit, detailed instructions, pre-paid shipping labels for returning your sample to our CLIA-certified lab, and comprehensive lab analysis for HSV-1 IgG and HSV-2 IgG. The price covers all testing and reporting, with no hidden fees. We prioritize transparency and empower you with access to your sexual health data confidently and affordably.

Can you explain the 'window period' for herpes testing and why IgG is measured?

The 'window period' is the time between potential exposure to herpes and when the body produces enough antibodies to be detectable by a test. For IgG antibodies, this period is typically 3-6 weeks after exposure, but can extend up to several months. We measure IgG antibodies because they are long-lasting indicators of past or present infection, unlike IgM antibodies which are transient and less reliable for herpes diagnosis. Understanding this detail is crucial for interpreting your results accurately.

Customer reviews

4.7/5 (3)

• 5/5 — I was really nervous about getting tested, but this kit made it so much less stressful. Everything was straightforward, and the results came back quickly.
• 5/5 — Exactly what I was looking for – a private way to get tested. The instructions were clear, and I got my results fast.
• 4/5 — The process was simple and collection was easy. It gave me the answers I needed without any hassle.