How Do You Test For Herpes?
If you’ve been exposed to the common herpes virus, or have an active outbreak, don’t worry! There are many test options available on the market today, and our experts are here to help you discover which is right for you. So, first things first, how is herpes tested for?
Herpes can be detected using a number of test types. If you have an active outbreak, a simple swab test will be offered to you. To diagnose past infections, or for a more accurate test result, blood and PCR tests are available at private clinics. Urine tests are also used to diagnose current infections.
Read on to learn more about the herpes testing methods, whether or not herpes tests are included in pre-pregnancy screens, and where you can access herpes tests in the UK.
How To Test For Herpes
The test used to detect herpes varies based on several factors; how long ago you were exposed to the virus, whether or not you have an active outbreak, and if you are getting tested privately or via the National Health Service (NHS). We explore each of the methods, and when they are used, in more detail below:
Swab Test
The swab test is most effective when there are active herpes sores or blisters. A small fluid sample is taken from the affected area using a cotton bud and tested for the herpes virus. It’s highly accurate for diagnosing current infections and is the preferred method if symptoms are present.
Blood Test
A blood test detects IgG antibodies for HSV-1 and HSV-2, indicating a past herpes infection. While not used for diagnosing early infections, it helps determine if you’ve been exposed to herpes (after at least 14 days), even without symptoms. This test is useful when there is no outbreak but a history of possible exposure.
Check out our Instant Herpes I & II Blood Test.
Urine Test
Urine tests can be used to detect genital herpes using a PCR method. A swab test is preferred for open sores, however, they may be a viable option if you don’t have any open sores, but have urethral symptoms (such as painful urination).
PCR Test
A PCR test (also known as polymerase chain reaction tests) detects the DNA of the herpes virus, making it one of the most accurate methods for diagnosing active infections.
| Methods Of Testing For Herpes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swab Test | Urine Test | Blood Test | PCR Test | |
| Active Outbreak | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Previous Outbreak | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ | x |
| When To Test | Immediately during outbreak | If symptoms | 14 days after exposure | Immediately during or soon after outbreak |
| Detects HSV-1? | ✔ | ✖ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Detects HSV-2? | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Available On NHS? | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Available Through YSH? | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Can You Test For Herpes Without An Outbreak?
Yes, you can! Whilst it isn’t currently offered on the NHS, private sexual health clinics can test for herpes without current symptoms in the mouth or genital region. This will usually be done via a blood test. Blood IgG antibody levels offer a good level of accuracy when testing for previous herpes infections.
Do They Test For Herpes When Pregnant?
Unfortunately, the NHS doesn’t test for herpes during pregnancy screening tests. However, they do offer blood tests to detect HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis. If you want to test for herpes before having a baby (which we’d highly recommend to encourage a safe pregnancy and delivery) then you will need to visit a private sexual health clinic.
To learn more about the impact herpes can have on a newborn, you must read one of our recent blogs: How Should You Prepare for STDs in Pregnancy?
Do They Test For Herpes Before IVF?
If you’re receiving IVF, many providers require STD screens to be completed before you begin your treatment in order to maximise your chance of a successful pregnancy. Your partner may also need to complete these tests as well. This usually includes chlamydia and gonorrhoea before starting IVF, and then HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis during pregnancy – but not herpes.
Why is Herpes Not Routinely Tested For?
To test for herpes, you’d usually need to have an active outbreak, and even then, it isn’t something that a GP or sexual health practitioner would test for unless you specifically requested it. There are a few reasons as to why:
-
- Extremely common: Herpes is very common, with 64.2% of the world carrying the HSV-1 virus, and 13.3% carrying HSV-2. Many people carry the virus without ever experiencing symptoms. Routine testing would detect many cases that may never cause health problems or transmission concerns.
- No cure available: Herpes is a lifelong infection, but it often doesn’t cause serious long-term health complications, especially when asymptomatic. Apart from taking antiviral medication, which reduces the risk of transmission and further outbreaks, there is nothing that can cure herpes.
- Lower risk of health complications: Compared to some STDs like HIV or syphilis, herpes carries a lower risk of further health complications. Whilst herpes outbreaks are uncomfortable, the risk of it developing into anything further is very low.
Get Tested For Genital Herpes With Your Sexual Health
If you’re unsure which herpes test is right for you, get in touch with our team of sexual health experts, or use our ‘Find My Test’ tool to learn which sexual health test is best for your current situation.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with herpes, there are ways to manage symptoms so that they do not affect your day-to-day life. Read more in our guide: Living With Genital Herpes- How To Prevent & Manage Outbreaks
People Also Asked
Can a Blood Test Detect Herpes?
Yes, a blood test can detect herpes. It does so by detecting antibodies for herpes in the bloodstream, which indicates that your body has previously tried to fight off the virus. In fact, it is one of the most accurate testing methods for detecting both previous and active infections in the mouth or genital region.
Does Herpes Show Up in an STD Test?
Unless you have specifically taken a test that includes herpes simplex in the infections that it tests for, then no, it won’t just show up. It also isn’t included in routine tests on the NHS or other GUM clinics. If you have an active outbreak or have had one previously, your best option is to choose a private sexual health test which either tests for herpes alone, or alongside other STDs at the same time.
What Does Herpes Look Like?
Herpes is often asymptomatic, however, when an outbreak occurs, you’ll get a few small fluid-filled blisters either around your mouth (HSV-1), or on the genital region (HSV-2). They are usually accompanied by some redness, soreness, tingling, or itching.
To learn more, check out our recent blog: What Does Herpes Look Like?
