Description

Genital Herpes Test: Things to Consider

There are many benefits to using an at-home herpes test kit rather than visiting a doctor’s office. The Basic Benefits Genital Herpes test costs only $89, covering the kit and lab work. Testing at a doctor’s office may cost hundreds of dollars depending on insurance, physician, and test type.

Using an at-home herpes test kit is more convenient. It only takes a few minutes to collect your sample and ship it for testing, whereas a doctor’s visit can take hours including travel, waiting, and the exam.

Results from a doctor’s office may be shared with the Medical Information Bureau, potentially affecting insurance premiums. Basic Benefits does not share this information, so your results remain private. At-home testing also provides faster results.

FDA Recommendations About Genital Herpes Tests

On December 27, 2023, the U.S. FDA issued guidance about the potential for false reactive (false positive) results in HSV-2 serological (antibody) tests. They provided recommendations to improve test accuracy.

Key points include:

• Background on genital herpes and testing
• Guidelines for ordering HSV-2 antibody tests to reduce false positives and false negatives
• Use of confirmatory testing for positive results

General Background on Genital Herpes

• Genital herpes is caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. Most cases are HSV-2.
• HSV-1 increasingly causes genital infections and is associated with oral lesions.
• Transmission occurs via genital-to-genital, oral-to-genital, anal-to-genital, and genital-to-anal sex.
• Symptoms appear 2–12 days after infection, averaging 4 days.
• Asymptomatic infections are common; 85–90% of people with HSV-2 are unaware of their infection.
• First outbreaks may include blisters, painful ulcers, itching, burning, discharge, and swollen lymph nodes, usually resolving in 2–3 weeks.
• Recurrent outbreaks are milder, resolving in 7–10 days.
• HSV-2 can be transmitted even without symptoms.

Using Swab Tests to Diagnose Genital Herpes

• Swab tests are most accurate for symptomatic outbreaks to identify HSV-1 or HSV-2.
• Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), such as PCR for HSV DNA, are preferred over cultures for accuracy.

Proper Use of Herpes Antibody Tests

• Type-specific antibody tests (TSSTs) identify antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 but are less accurate than NAAT swab tests.
• Asymptomatic individuals should only use antibody tests in specific scenarios to avoid false positives.

When Should You Take an At-Home Herpes Test?

• If a current or past sex partner was diagnosed with genital herpes.
• If a healthcare provider suspected genital herpes but swab testing was negative or not done.
• If you have recurrent symptoms such as genital blisters, ulcers, burning on urination, vaginal discharge, or genital rash.
• For STI evaluation, men who have sex with men, or individuals with HIV, especially with multiple partners.
• If your healthcare provider recommends HSV antibody testing based on your history or risk factors.

Understanding HSV-2 Herpes Antibody Test Results

• Basic Benefits offers type-specific IgG testing for HSV-2. HSV-1 testing requires a healthcare provider.
• False negatives can occur if testing is done too soon after exposure (2 weeks to 3–4 months for antibodies to develop). Repeat testing may be needed.
• False positives may occur at low index values. Confirmatory testing via Western blot (University of Washington) is recommended for low positive results. Basic Benefits does not provide Western blot testing.
• If results are questionable, contact your healthcare provider to discuss next steps and confirmatory testing.

Who Should Use a Herpes Test Kit?

Basic Benefits’ herpes (HSV-2) antibody test screens specifically for genital HSV-2 antibodies. It is ideal for individuals who suspect or know they may have been exposed to HSV-2.

Testing Instructions

• Order the home testing kit online. It ships discreetly and for free.
• Collect your sample following the included instructions.
• Use the prepaid envelope to send the sample for testing.
• Wait for results, which will be posted to your secure online account.
• Schedule a free phone consultation with a physician to discuss your results.

Testing for herpes has never been more convenient. The entire process can be completed from the comfort of your own home without visiting a doctor or lab.