What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive doctor notes in plain language explaining your HSV-2 antibody status and what it means for your health and relationships. These notes include guidance on managing symptoms if positive, preventing transmission to partners, and when to seek medical treatment. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your antibody levels over time using our trends feature if you need follow-up testing.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically available within 1-3 business days after your sample reaches the lab. If your initial test is positive, the reflex confirmation test (HSV-2 Inhibition) will be performed automatically, which may add an additional 1-2 days to your turnaround time. You'll be notified as soon as your complete results are ready.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone experiencing genital symptoms like sores, blisters, burning, or itching that could indicate herpes. It's also valuable for people who've had unprotected sexual contact with someone who has herpes, those starting new relationships who want to know their status, or anyone seeking comprehensive sexual health screening. Even without symptoms, many people carry HSV-2 unknowingly and can still transmit it to partners.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest HSV-2 infection include painful blisters or sores in the genital or anal area, itching or tingling before sores appear, burning during urination, and flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks. However, many people with HSV-2 have no symptoms or very mild ones they don't recognize as herpes. If you've had any unusual genital symptoms or potential exposure, testing can provide clarity.

How can I naturally manage herpes symptoms and reduce outbreaks?

Managing stress through meditation, adequate sleep, and regular exercise can help reduce outbreak frequency, as stress is a common trigger. Taking lysine supplements and avoiding arginine-rich foods (like nuts and chocolate) may help suppress the virus. Maintaining a strong immune system through a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and E, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers like excessive sun exposure or illness can also minimize outbreaks.

What is HSV-2 and why does it matter?

HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2) is a common sexually transmitted infection that primarily causes genital herpes. While it's not life-threatening, it can cause recurrent painful outbreaks and be transmitted to sexual partners even when no symptoms are present. Knowing your status matters because it allows you to take antiviral medication to manage symptoms, reduce transmission risk to partners, and make informed decisions about disclosure and safe sex practices.

What does a positive HSV-2 result mean?

A positive result means you have antibodies to HSV-2, indicating past or current infection with genital herpes. This doesn't necessarily mean you're having an active outbreak right now, but the virus remains in your body and can reactivate periodically. With proper management through antiviral medications and lifestyle adjustments, most people with HSV-2 live normal, healthy lives and can have fulfilling relationships while taking precautions to protect partners.