Herpes Test

How it Works

Herpes Test

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus.  Herpes infections are typically classified as type 1 or type 2 depending on which strain of the virus is present in the body.  Herpes 1 is the more prevalent strain of the virus.  It is estimated that nearly 80% of people in the U.S. carry the Herpes 1 virus by the age of 50.  Herpes 2 is less common, but still present in nearly 1 in 5 adults.  The most common indicator of a herpes infection is the appearance of sores around the oral or genital area although it frequently shows no symptoms at all. Both forms of herpes are spread through skin to skin contact with an infected area.  Herpes can be spread regardless of whether or not a person is experiencing symptoms.  Herpes 1 is most often associated with oral herpes and herpes 2 with genital herpes.  However, both forms of herpes can appear in either the oral or genital region depending on the type of contact that results in infection.  Herpes often goes undiagnosed because the virus can remain dormant for years at a time with no outward symptoms.  Receiving a herpes test can help determine if you are infected and what form of the virus you have.       

An easy, confidential Herpes test

At Request a Test, we have access to labs all over the country.  We use the same testing facilities that are employed by many hospitals and physicians for their testing needs.  All of our labs operate on a walk-in basis so there is no need to schedule appointments.  Ordering your herpes test with us eliminates the need to go through your doctor or insurance.  No one needs to know about your testing needs but you.

Types of Herpes tests

Request A Test has a number of herpes tests available that can be ordered individually or as part of cost-saving packages.  The Herpes 1&2 IgG antibodies test is a popular choice for remote exposure testing.  This test can be purchased by itself or as part of our Essential STD Panel.  For pricing and more information about these and other tests available in our herpes testing category, please go to http://requestatest.com/herpes-testing.

Symptoms of Herpes

Herpes infections often display no symptoms.  When symptoms do occur, the most common is outbreaks of blisters or sores around the infected area.  The initial outbreak will usually be more severe than subsequent outbreaks.  Outbreaks can be triggered by fatigue, stress, illness, certain medications, menstruation, and trauma to the infected area.  Outbreaks usually occur with less frequency and heal faster the longer the virus remains in the body.  Herpes can remain dormant for years at a time with no symptoms.  Even if a person is not experiencing an outbreak, they can spread the herpes virus.  When the virus is active but not showing any symptoms, a person is experiencing a condition known as asymptomatic shedding.  The best way to determine if you have contracted herpes is to receive a herpes test.    

Who should get a Herpes test?

Anyone who is sexually active can contract herpes.  The use of protective devices, like condoms, lessens but does not eliminate the possibility of herpes infection.  High-risk behaviors like unprotected sex and sex with multiple partners can increase the risk of spreading herpes.  Receiving a herpes test is recommended to help ensure your ongoing health. 

Why get a Herpes test?

Many herpes infections go without a diagnosis because they show infrequent symptoms or no symptoms at all.  Up to 80% of those infected with herpes 2 are unaware they carry the virus.  Herpes can be spread even if a person is not displaying symptoms.  Those infected with herpes have a higher risk of contracting other STD’s including HIV.  Long-term herpes infections may result in damage to the nervous system including chronic pain and partial numbness.  Pregnant women can pass herpes infections to their infants during childbirth.  Babies born with herpes infections can suffer from severe and sometimes fatal health complications.    

When to get a Herpes test

Periodic herpes tests are recommended for anyone who is sexually active.  A herpes test is especially important in the event that a person learns of a current or past sexual partner who has tested positive for herpes.  Pregnant women, as well as women who are planning to become pregnant, should receive a herpes test.

Where can I get a Herpes test?

Request A Test partners with 2 of the largest lab companies in the United States to provide you with 1000’s of lab collection centers across the country.  All we need is a zip code to find the lab location that is most convenient for you.  As soon as we have completed your order, you may proceed to the lab during their business hours.  To find the lab location nearest to you or to view a complete list of available lab locations, please go to our Location Finder. 

 Herpes test preparation

Herpes tests require no fasting or special preparations.

Herpes test procedure

Once you have arrived at the lab, you will undergo a simple blood collection. 

Herpes test accuracy

At Request a Test we use only nationally accredited labs with highly trained personnel and state of the art equipment to ensure the highest possible accuracy in your herpes test results.

Herpes test results

The turnaround time for herpes tests varies but most tests typically show results in 1-3 business days.  Please refer to an individual test’s listing to verify how quickly it will see results.  You will be notified by e-mail as soon as your results are available.  You can access your results online or call to speak with a representative.  Results can also be sent by fax or mail by special request. 

Herpes Treatment

While there is no cure for herpes, proper treatment can help to control outbreaks and lessen the risk of spreading the infection.  It is recommended that anyone seeking treatment consult with a doctor to discuss the best course of action for their situation. 

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