Question 1

What is Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection?

Accepted Answer

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infection is a sexually transmitted infection that primarily causes genital herpes. It is caused by the HSV-2 virus, which infects the genital area and remains dormant in nerve cells, causing recurrent outbreaks. The Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgG Type-Specific Antibody test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects antibodies even when symptoms are not present.

Question 2

What causes Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infection?

Accepted Answer

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infection is caused by the HSV-2 virus, which spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. The virus enters the body through small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes of the genital area and travels to nerve cells where it remains dormant. Even when no visible sores are present, the virus can still be transmitted to partners through viral shedding, making it one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide.

Question 3

What is the best test for HSV-2 infection?

Accepted Answer

The Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgG Type-Specific Antibody test is the most important test for HSV-2 infection because it detects antibodies that your immune system produces in response to the virus. This test can identify infection even when you have no symptoms or visible sores, which is crucial since many people with HSV-2 are asymptomatic. For comprehensive screening, the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 IgG with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition test is also valuable because it tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies and includes confirmatory testing to accurately distinguish between the two virus types.

Question 4

When should I get tested for HSV-2?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners, have noticed unusual genital sores or blisters, have a partner diagnosed with genital herpes, or are experiencing symptoms like painful urination or genital itching. Testing is also recommended if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, as HSV-2 can be transmitted to a baby during delivery. Even if you have no symptoms, consider testing if you want to know your status before starting a new relationship.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of HSV-2 infection?

Accepted Answer

HSV-2 symptoms include painful blisters or sores on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs that break open and form ulcers before healing. You might notice flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak, including fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Other symptoms include painful urination, genital itching or tingling before sores appear, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Many people with HSV-2 have very mild symptoms that go unnoticed or mistake them for other skin conditions like ingrown hairs or pimples.

Question 6

Who is at risk for HSV-2 infection?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for HSV-2, but risk increases with multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, and having other sexually transmitted infections. Women are more susceptible to infection than men due to anatomical differences. People with weakened immune systems, those who started having sex at a young age, and individuals whose partners have genital herpes face higher risk. Having HSV-1 (oral herpes) does not protect against getting HSV-2, and you can have both types simultaneously.

Question 7

What happens if HSV-2 is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, HSV-2 causes recurrent outbreaks that can be painful and emotionally distressing, though outbreaks typically become less frequent and severe over time. Untreated HSV-2 significantly increases your risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV because the genital sores provide entry points for the virus. In pregnant women, untreated HSV-2 can lead to neonatal herpes if transmitted to the baby during delivery, which can cause serious complications including brain damage or death. The infection also increases susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections.

Question 8

Can HSV-2 be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HSV-2 can be definitively diagnosed with a blood test that detects IgG antibodies specific to the virus. Blood tests are particularly valuable because they can identify infection even when you have no symptoms or visible sores, unlike swab tests that require active lesions. The antibodies typically develop within a few weeks to a few months after initial infection and remain detectable for life. Type-specific blood tests can accurately distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2, which is important for understanding transmission risks and appropriate treatment.

Question 9

How is HSV-2 infection treated?

Accepted Answer

HSV-2 is treated with antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir that reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks. For frequent outbreaks, daily suppressive therapy can reduce recurrence rates by 70-80% and significantly decrease the risk of transmitting the virus to partners. While these medications cannot cure HSV-2 or eliminate the virus from your body, they effectively manage symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment should be started as soon as symptoms appear during an outbreak for best results, and pregnant women with HSV-2 may need suppressive therapy near delivery to prevent transmission to the baby.

Question 10

How can I prevent HSV-2 infection?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent HSV-2 by using condoms consistently during all sexual activity, though condoms do not provide complete protection since the virus can be present on areas not covered by condoms. Avoid sexual contact when you or your partner have visible sores or symptoms of an outbreak. Having open conversations with partners about STI status and getting tested together before becoming sexually active reduces risk. If you have HSV-2, taking daily antiviral suppressive therapy significantly reduces the likelihood of transmitting the virus to uninfected partners.

Question 11

What can I do at home for HSV-2 outbreaks?

Accepted Answer

During HSV-2 outbreaks, keep the affected area clean and dry, and wear loose-fitting cotton underwear to reduce irritation. Apply cool compresses or take warm baths to soothe painful sores, and try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort. Avoid touching sores and wash hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus to other body parts. Reduce outbreak triggers by managing stress, getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive sun exposure to the genital area, as these factors can weaken your immune system and trigger recurrences.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

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?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Blood Test

What is Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection?

What causes Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infection?

What is the best test for HSV-2 infection?

When should I get tested for HSV-2?

References

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