How to Treat Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that is spread by sexual contact, according to the CDC. It is one of the most...
Read moreHelp patients book appointments with you on Solv. It's free!
12 instant-book locations
Help patients book appointments with you on Solv. It's free!
Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the two most common types of HSV are oral herpes (HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2) (HSV-2). Blisters or cold sores around the lips characterize oral herpes, while blisters or sores in the vaginal area indicate genital herpes.
Herpes is one of the most common viral infections in the United States, according to the State of New York Department of Health, with genital herpes infecting one in every four Americans aged 18 and older. Herpes is spread via direct contact with sores, which occurs most frequently during vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected person. According to the National Institutes of Health, herpes can spread even if an infected person has no visible blisters.
Herpes is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, according to the New York State Department of Health. It goes on to warn that herpes can spread even if there are no sores or other symptoms in the affected person.
The best way to reduce your risk of genital herpes, according to the National Institutes of Health, is to avoid having intercourse and to use condoms appropriately and regularly when you do. Staying in a long-term relationship with someone who does not have genital herpes is another excellent way to reduce your risk.
A herpes test, often known as an HSV test, is a form of STD test that examines your body for the presence of HSV. An HSV test can determine whether sores on your mouth or genitals are caused by HSV, according to the National Institutes of Health. In pregnant women, an HSV test can be performed to diagnose a herpes infection and determine whether the baby is at danger.
Herpes cannot be cured, and there is no effective herpes medication that can make the infection go away completely, according to the National Institutes of Health. According to the CDC, certain medicines can help you feel better and reduce your risk of spreading herpes to your sex partner. According to the CDC, antiviral medicines may also prevent or reduce outbreaks while being administered.
An HSV test can be used to detect HSV in your body. According to the National Institutes of Health, this STD test is available as a swab test or a blood test. If you know you have herpes, you can prevent infecting others, especially unborn infants.
A herpes test is frequently used to determine whether HSV is causing herpes symptoms like oral or vaginal sores. A herpes test can be used to diagnose HSV in pregnant women and newborn babies who may have been exposed to HSV while in the womb, according to the National Institutes of Health.
According to the National Institutes of Health, an HSV test may be required if you have had sexual contact with someone who is infected with HSV, or if you are pregnant and have previously had herpes or indications of genital herpes. According to the National Institutes of Health, HSV testing may be required if you've had multiple sex partners, are a male who has sex with men, or have symptoms of a brain or spinal cord condition such as fever, confusion, or a stiff neck.
During an HSV swab test, a healthcare worker uses a cotton swab to obtain a fluid and cell sample from a herpes sore. A thin, microscopic needle is used to take a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm during a blood test. A spinal tap is a treatment in which a healthcare professional takes a little volume of fluid from your spine to identify HSV infection.
The swab test and herpes blood test, according to the National Institutes of Health, do not require any special preparation. You may be asked to empty your bladder and bowels before having a spinal tap. The lab test supplier can provide you with more information on the preparation required for your type of HSV test.
There are no risks connected with the herpes swab test, according to the National Institutes of Health. The blood test may cause minor discomfort and bruising at the injection site, according to the NIH, but these symptoms usually go away quickly. A spinal tap can cause a headache, as well as discomfort or tightness in the area where the needle was inserted. Your doctor may go over the risks of HSV testing in greater detail with you.
HSV test results that are normal or negative imply that no herpes virus was found or detected. However, the National Institutes of Health warns that an HSV infection can exist even if test results are normal. Positive or abnormal results mean that HSV was found in your sample and that you are infected or have previously been infected.
According to the CDC, HSV testing for those who don't have herpes symptoms isn't recommended because a positive diagnosis in someone who doesn't have symptoms doesn't cause them to change their sexual behavior or stop the virus from spreading. According to the CDC, false-positive results might occur in people who don't have any symptoms. The herpes test is presently only recommended for people who have HSV symptoms, according to the CDC.
Many healthcare practitioners that conduct lab tests and STD testing in Allison can administer a herpes test. HSV testing is available from a variety of sources, including your primary care physician, a hospital, an urgent care center, or a walk-in clinic.
Find herpes testing providers in your area using Solv and make an appointment for the same day or the next day. Type "herpes test" or "STD testing" into the search form on Solv's website, then choose your location to find top-rated providers in your area.
Updated on Apr 25, 2024
Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.
Annual Wellness Exam in Allison
Chickenpox Vaccine in Allison
DOT Exam in Allison
Ear Wax Removal in Allison
Eye Exam in Allison
Flu Shot in Allison
Hepatitis Vaccine in Allison
Measles Vaccine (MMR) in Allison
Pap Smear in Allison
Physical Exam in Allison
Shingles Vaccine in Allison
Sinus Infection Treatment in Allison
Sports Physicals in Allison
Tetanus Shot in Allison
Typhoid Vaccine in Allison
Well-Woman Exam in Allison
Yellow Fever Vaccine in Allison
A1C Test in Allison
CMP Test in Allison
Chlamydia Test in Allison
Diabetes Test in Allison
Gonorrhea test in Allison
H Pylori Test in Allison
HIV Test in Allison
Hepatitis test in Allison
Herpes Test in Allison
Mono Test in Allison
Pregnancy Test in Allison
STD Testing in Allison
Strep Test in Allison
Syphilis test in Allison
TB Test in Allison
Thyroid Test in Allison
Trichomonas Test in Allison
Vitamin D Test in Allison
Tips, advice, news—your resource to stay healthy and safe while improving your experience with healthcare providers when you need them.