Herpes Test near me

Herpes Test FAQs

• What is a herpes (HSV) test?

  An HSV test can detect the presence of HSV in your body. According to the NIH, this STD test is available as a swab test, or blood test. Knowing whether you have herpes can help you avoid spreading it to others, including an unborn baby.

• What is a herpes test used for?

  A herpes test is typically used to determine whether HSV is causing herpes symptoms, including sores on your mouth or genitals. According to the NIH, a herpes test can also be used to diagnose HSV in women who are pregnant, and in newborn babies who may have been exposed to HSV in the womb.

• Why do I need an HSV test?

  You may need an HSV test if you have engaged in sexual activity with someone who is infected with HSV, or if you are pregnant and previously had herpes or symptoms of genital herpes, reports the NIH. The NIH adds that HSV testing may be necessary if you have had multiple sex partners, are a man who has sex with men, or you have symptoms of a brain or spinal cord disorder including fever, confusion, or a stiff neck.

• What happens during an HSV test?

  During an HSV swab test, a healthcare provider uses a cotton swab to collect a fluid and cell sample from a herpes sore. During a blood test, a healthcare provider uses a thin, tiny needle to draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. During a spinal tap, a healthcare provider draws a small amount of fluid from your spine to diagnose HSV.

• Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

  The NIH reports that no special preparation is required to have the swab test or herpes blood test. However, you may be asked to empty your bladder and bowels before having a spinal tap. The lab test provider can provide you with more details about the preparation required for your type of HSV test.

• Are there any risks to a herpes test?

  The herpes swab test presents no risks, reports the NIH. The blood test may cause minor discomfort and bruising at the injection site, though these symptoms usually go away relatively quickly, adds the NIH. A spinal tap may cause headache, as well as pain or tenderness in the back where the needle was inserted. Your doctor can talk to you in greater detail about potential risks associated with HSV testing.

• What do the results mean?

  HSV test results that come back as normal or negative mean that no herpes virus was found or detected. However, the NIH reports that it’s possible to have an HSV infection even if results come back normal. Results that come back as positive or abnormal mean that HSV was found in your sample and that you either have an active infection or were infected in the past.

• Is there anything else I need to know about an HSV test?

  The CDC does not recommend HSV testing for people who do not have symptoms of herpes, as the CDC has found that a positive diagnosis in someone without symptoms typically does not cause people to change their sexual behavior, and does not stop the virus from spreading. The CDC adds that false-positive results are also possible in people who do not have symptoms. At this time, the herpes test is recommended only for people with symptoms of HSV, according to the CDC.

• Where can I get a herpes test?

  Many healthcare providers that offer lab tests and STD testing services can administer a herpes test. Your primary care physician, a hospital, an urgent care center, or a walk-in clinic are examples of healthcare providers that may offer HSV testing.

  Use Solv to locate herpes test providers in your area and book a same-day or next-day appointment. Type “herpes test” or “STD testing” into the search field on Solv’s website, then select your location to find top-rated providers in your area.