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HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibody test for sexual health screening and peace of mind

Blood Test for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG), Type Specific Antibodies (HerpeSelect®)

Google
3,138 reviews
  • Checks for past herpes infection.
  • Detects herpes antibodies in blood.
  • Tests immunity to herpes virus.
First results as soon as overnight*

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you want to know whether you've been exposed to herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2, even if you've never had symptoms. Many people carry the herpes virus without knowing it, and this test can provide peace of mind or help you make informed decisions about your sexual health. It's especially useful for those entering new relationships, pregnant women, or anyone who has had a potential exposure.

How should I prepare for this test?

This test requires no special preparation and can be taken at any time of day. However, it's important to wait at least 4 weeks after a potential exposure for antibodies to develop and be detectable. If you test too early after exposure, you may get a false negative result, so timing is crucial for accuracy.

What's included in this test?

Hsv 1 Igg, Type Specific Ab Hsv 2 Igg, Type Specific Ab

This test measures antibodies to both HSV-1 (commonly associated with oral herpes) and HSV-2 (typically associated with genital herpes), helping identify which type you may have been exposed to. The type-specific antibody test can differentiate between the two strains, which is important because they have different transmission patterns and health implications. This information helps you understand your status and make informed decisions about prevention and disclosure to partners.

What happens after I get my results?
You'll receive doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody results mean for your sexual health and what to monitor. These notes include personalized guidance on managing herpes if positive, prevention strategies, and whether you should consult with a specialist. Along with your standard lab report, you can track your antibody levels over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful if you're monitoring your immune response or managing outbreaks.
When will I get my results?
Most herpes antibody test results are available within 1-3 business days after your blood sample reaches the lab. You'll receive an email notification when your results are ready to view securely online. If results are equivocal or you tested early after exposure, your doctor may recommend retesting in 4-6 weeks for confirmation.
Who should consider getting this test?
This test is important for sexually active adults who want to know their herpes status, people entering new relationships who want full STD screening, and anyone who may have been exposed to herpes. It's also recommended for pregnant women or those planning pregnancy, since herpes can be transmitted to babies during childbirth. Even if you've never had symptoms, you could still carry the virus and benefit from knowing your status.
What symptoms indicate I may need this test?
Many people with herpes never have symptoms, but signs can include painful blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals, tingling or itching before an outbreak, flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak, or recurring episodes of genital discomfort. Even without symptoms, testing is important if you've had unprotected sexual contact with someone who has herpes or if you want comprehensive sexual health screening.
What does a positive HSV result mean?
A positive result means you have antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2, indicating you've been exposed to the virus at some point, even if you've never had symptoms. This is very common—about 1 in 6 Americans has HSV-2, and even more have HSV-1. A positive result doesn't mean you're currently having an outbreak, just that the virus is present in your body and you could potentially transmit it to partners, especially during outbreaks.
What should I do if my results are positive?
If you test positive, the most important steps are to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider about management options and to discuss disclosure with current or future sexual partners. Antiviral medications can reduce outbreak frequency and lower transmission risk, while using condoms and avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks provides additional protection. Many people with herpes lead healthy, fulfilling lives and relationships with proper management and communication.
How can I reduce my risk of transmitting or contracting herpes?
The most effective prevention includes using condoms consistently, avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks when sores are present, and considering daily antiviral medication if you're positive to reduce transmission risk. Open communication with partners about STD status, limiting number of sexual partners, and getting regular STD screenings also help. Remember that herpes can be transmitted even without visible symptoms, so ongoing prevention is important.
How’s this work?
Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:
  1. In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
  2. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
  3. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
  4. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
  5. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
  6. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
  7. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
  8. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected] and we'll gladly help you.
How do I know which test to get?
In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.

Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at [email protected], and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.
Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?
Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.

Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at [email protected]. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.

There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.

Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.
Do you accept health insurance?
Only HSA & FSA is accepted.

Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.

This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected].
Can I cancel my order?
Yes.

We get it – sometimes your needs change.

As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.

If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected].

You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
How can I find a lab location near me?
During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).

Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected] and we'll gladly help you.

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

You get clinical lab reports & simplified health insights.
Save time & gas, go straight to the lab. Our doctors cover the rest.
Results start landing the next day after your lab visit.*
We don’t sell or share your data. Your time & privacy matter.
US-licensed doctors have your back if things get unclear.
No hidden fees, nice discounts for regular checkups.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
Demo results
HSV-2 IgG Type-Specific Antibody Negative
Demo results
Negative Positive
Negative

What this means

Your test came back negative for HSV-2 antibodies, meaning no exposure to herpes simplex virus type 2 was detected. This is the expected and healthy result, indicating you have not been infected with genital herpes.

* Regular blood test results (e.g., CBC) typically start arriving the next business day after sample collection. More complex tests, such as hormone panels, may take up to 10–15 business days due to their complexity.
Here’s how easy it is to get blood work done on your terms
Choose a checkup
Order your test Save a trip to the doctor. Your results will come with clear, friendly explanations. Takes 2 minutes
Book a lab
Book an appointment Visit any of our 4,000 nearby lab locations to have your samples collected. Book or walk-in
Choose a checkup
Get results Receive a clear, easy-to-digest health report by email & SMS within a few business days. Get answers, fast

Blood Test for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2

Google
3,138 reviews
  • Checks for past herpes infection.
  • Detects herpes antibodies in blood.
  • Tests immunity to herpes virus.

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Google reviews 3138 reviews Next
Still got questions? Text our super-cool support team at 754-799-7833 to get help finding your ideal checkup.