What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about possible exposure to oral herpes (cold sores) or want to know your HSV-1 status before starting a new relationship. It detects IgG antibodies that develop after a herpes type 1 infection, indicating whether you've been exposed to the virus in the past, even if you've never had symptoms. Many people use this test for peace of mind, to inform partners, or to understand recurrent cold sore outbreaks.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive doctor notes in simple language explaining what your HSV-1 antibody result means for your health and transmission risk. These notes include personalized guidance on managing outbreaks if positive, reducing transmission to partners, and when antiviral medication might be helpful. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your status over time using our trends feature if you choose to retest.

What's included in this test?

This test measures IgG antibodies specific to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 in your blood. IgG antibodies indicate a past or long-term infection rather than a brand-new exposure, helping you understand if you've ever been infected with HSV-1, which causes oral herpes and cold sores. The type-specific nature of this test ensures it distinguishes HSV-1 from HSV-2 (genital herpes).

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is needed for this test. You don't need to fast, and you can take your regular medications. Simply visit the lab during their operating hours for a quick blood draw. The test measures antibodies that are present in your bloodstream regardless of when you eat or what time of day you test.

When will I get my results?

Most herpes antibody test results are available within 1-3 business days after your blood is drawn at the lab. You'll receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready to view online. In some cases, results may take up to 5 business days depending on lab volume.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone who has had cold sores or suspects exposure to HSV-1, those entering new relationships who want to know their status, and people whose partners have oral herpes. It's also useful if you've had unexplained mouth or lip sores, or if you want to understand your risk of transmitting the virus to others, especially newborns or immunocompromised individuals.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include recurrent cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth or lips, tingling or burning sensations before an outbreak, or painful fluid-filled blisters that crust over. Some people experience flu-like symptoms during their first outbreak, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, or body aches. However, many people with HSV-1 never have symptoms but can still transmit the virus.

How can I naturally support my immune system if I have HSV-1?

Managing stress through meditation, yoga, or regular exercise can help reduce outbreak frequency since stress weakens immunity. Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly) and eat a balanced diet rich in lysine (found in fish, chicken, legumes) while limiting arginine-rich foods (nuts, chocolate) that may trigger outbreaks. Protect your lips from sun exposure with SPF lip balm, as UV light can trigger cold sores.

What does a positive HSV-1 IgG result mean?

A positive result means you have been infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 at some point in your life, and the virus remains dormant in your system. This is extremely common—about 50-80% of adults test positive for HSV-1 antibodies. A positive result doesn't necessarily mean you'll have frequent outbreaks; many people never experience symptoms or have very infrequent cold sores.

What does a negative HSV-1 IgG result mean?

A negative result means no HSV-1 antibodies were detected, suggesting you haven't been infected with oral herpes. However, if you were recently exposed (within the past 3-4 months), antibodies may not have developed yet, and retesting may be needed. A negative result means you could potentially contract HSV-1 in the future through oral contact or sharing items like utensils with someone who has the virus.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com 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 support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

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 support@privatemdlabs.com. 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 support@privatemdlabs.com.

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 support@privatemdlabs.com. 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 support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HSV-1 Test - Check Cold Sores & Oral Herpes Status

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Blood Test for Cold Sores and Oral Herpes

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (IgG), Type-Specific Antibody

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

How should I prepare for this test?

What's included in this test?

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

Blood Test for Cold Sores and Oral Herpes

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

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