Since genital herpes in men and women can have no specific signs or symptoms, the best way to diagnose it is to get tested for genital herpes.

To test for genital herpes (HSV-2), an FDA-approved test is used that can detect HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes) by detecting antibodies to the virus. This test uses a blood sample, so there is no need to take a swab or remove clothing.

The accuracy of all laboratory tests, including sexually transmitted disease tests, is measured in terms of sensitivity and specificity. The sensitivity of the genital herpes test is 97% and its specificity is 98%.

Read this article: What are the symptoms of genital herpes in women?

Is blood or urine used in genital herpes testing?

To detect herpes virus antibodies, we use a blood test called Quantitative Luminescence Test (CLIA).

Does this test require special preparation?

There is no need to prepare or fast for the HSV-2 test.

When is the right time to test?

There is no right time to test for genital herpes, because the amount of antibody production varies from person to person.... Although it is possible to diagnose herpes type 2 from three weeks after exposure, it is recommended to wait 4 to 6 weeks after exposure.... If the test result is negative, it is recommended to retest in three months to confirm the initial results.

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Interpretation of genital herpes test result

If the result is negative, there are no signs of genital herpes.... If it is positive, genital herpes is present.... Although CLIA tests are reliable, "false positives" are possible in some populations due to low HSV-2 virulence.

The results of the genital herpes test are within the numerical range.... If the test value is 0.91 or less, the result is negative, and the value of 1.09 or higher indicates a positive result.

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Can genital herpes be treated?

Genital herpes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.... Current antiviral drugs can prevent symptoms, shorten the duration of the appearance, and reduce the chance of transmission of the herpes virus.

Which people need to be tested for genital herpes?

According to the CDC, HSV-2 infection is more common among women because it is easier for the infection to pass from men to women. Women who have recently had contact with someone infected with genital herpes virus (HSV-2) should be tested. The infection can be transmitted through contact with genital or oral secretions, superficial lesions, and mucous membranes.See more: For boys: Everything you need to know about protecting your penis and scrotum

When is the best time to test?

Now is the best time to get tested for genital herpes. It is better to know about your sexual health today.

Genital herpes often has mild symptoms that may be ignored or confused with another skin disease. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to test 4-6 weeks after exposure to the virus. To confirm the test result, it is recommended to repeat the test 3 months after exposure.. If you've recently been in contact with someone whose STD status you don't know, get tested today.

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Also, if you have not been tested for other sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV-1, HIV-2, hepatitis A, B, and C in the past year, our doctors recommend using the STD 10 test panel to ensure that you are free of any sexually transmitted diseases.

Don't forget that if you need to get a blood test done, you can use GCORP LLC to use testing services at home or at work instead of going to the lab.

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Source: stdcheck

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