Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Despite its prevalence, there’s often confusion and stigma surrounding herpes, making it essential to understand how to test for it accurately. Whether you’re concerned about your sexual health or simply want to educate yourself, knowing how to test for herpes can help with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
In this comprehensive guide, we look into the methods used to test for herpes, including blood tests, viral culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. We explore the differences between testing for HSV-1 (typically associated with oral herpes) and HSV-2 (usually linked to genital herpes), as well as the importance of testing for both types, when to get tested, what to expect during the testing process, and how to interpret your results.
Early signs and symptoms
Early signs and symptoms of herpes can vary depending on whether the infection is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). Here’s a breakdown of what you might experience:
Oral Herpes (HSV-1)
Cold Sores: One of the most common manifestations of oral herpes is the appearance of cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth or on the lips.
Tingling or Itching: Before the cold sore appears, you might experience tingling, itching, or burning sensations around the affected area.
Pain or Discomfort: As the cold sore develops, you may experience pain or discomfort, especially when eating or talking.
Swollen Gums: In some cases, oral herpes can cause swelling and tenderness in the gums.
Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
Lesions or Sores: Genital herpes typically presents as small, painful blisters or open sores on or around the genital area, including the vagina, penis, buttocks, or anus.
Pain or Itching: Before the blisters appear, you may experience pain, itching, or tingling in the genital region.
Flu-like Symptoms: Some individuals may develop flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, during the initial outbreak.
Painful Urination: Urinating can be painful or uncomfortable due to the presence of sores near the urethra.
Not everyone infected with herpes will experience noticeable symptoms. Some people may be asymptomatic or have mild symptoms that go unnoticed. Symptoms may vary in severity from person to person and can recur intermittently over time. How long does a herpes outbreak last? Find out here.
Types of Herpes
Herpes is mainly caused by two types of viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Here’s an overview of each type:
HSV-1 (Oral Herpes)
HSV-1 is associated with oral herpes, which manifests as cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth or on the lips. HSV-1 is typically transmitted through oral-to-oral contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils, but can also be spread through oral-genital contact.
While oral herpes is traditionally linked to HSV-1, it can also cause genital herpes through oral sex with an infected individual. HSV-1 infections are widespread, with estimates suggesting that a significant portion of the global population is infected with the virus.
HSV-2 (Genital Herpes)
HSV-2 is primarily responsible for genital herpes, characterised by painful blisters or sores in the genital area. HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex, with an infected person.
While HSV-2 predominantly causes genital herpes, it can also infect the oral region through oral-genital contact, although this is less common than HSV-1 transmission to the genital area.
In rare circumstances, HSV-1 and HSV-2 can also be transmitted from a mother to her newborn during childbirth (neonatal herpes), potentially leading to severe complications in the infant.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are lifelong infections, meaning once a person carries the virus, it remains in their body indefinitely.
Testing Methods
In Australia, several testing methods are available for diagnosing herpes infections. These methods are typically offered through healthcare providers, sexual health clinics, and laboratories. Here are the common testing methods used:
Viral Culture
In this method, a sample of fluid from a herpes sore (lesion) is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The sample is cultured (grown) in a special medium to allow the herpes virus to replicate, which can take several days. Once the virus has replicated, it can be identified under a microscope, confirming the presence of herpes simplex virus. Viral culture is most effective when the lesion is in the active phase, and the virus is actively shedding.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test
PCR is a highly sensitive and specific molecular swab test that can detect the genetic material (DNA) of the herpes virus in a sample. Similar to viral culture, a sample from a cold or genital sore is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. PCR can detect even small amounts of herpes virus DNA, making it a reliable method for diagnosing both active infections and asymptomatic shedding. Results from PCR tests are usually available within a few days.
Herpes Blood Test (Serology)
Blood tests can detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to herpes infection. Two types of blood tests are commonly used: type-specific serology tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2. Type-specific tests can differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies, providing information about the type of infection (oral or genital). Blood tests are particularly useful for diagnosing asymptomatic infections or when lesions are not present. It’s important to note that blood tests may not accurately detect recent infections, as it takes time for the body to produce detectable levels of antibodies.
Point-of-Care (POC) Tests
POC tests are rapid diagnostic tests that can provide results within minutes, typically using a small sample of fluid from a herpes sore. These tests may be available at some clinics or healthcare facilities, offering convenience and quick results. However, POC tests may have lower sensitivity compared to laboratory-based tests, and confirmation with a more sensitive method may be necessary.
When to Get Tested
Knowing when to get tested for herpes depends on factors like your sexual activity, symptoms, and potential exposure to the virus. Here are some scenarios in which getting tested for herpes may be appropriate:
Symptoms Present: If you experience herpes symptoms such as genital sores, blisters, pain, itching, or burning, especially in the genital or oral area, get tested as soon as possible. Early detection can lead to prompt treatment and better management of the infection.
New Sexual Partner: If you have a new sexual partner or are considering becoming sexually active with someone new, discussing STI testing, including herpes testing, is important. Getting tested before engaging in sexual activity can help ensure both partners’ sexual health and prevent the spread of infections.
Previous Sexual Partners: If you or your partner have had multiple sexual partners or engage in high-risk sexual behaviours, regular STI testing, including herpes testing, is recommended as part of routine sexual health maintenance.
Pregnancy Planning: If you are planning to become pregnant or are already pregnant, herpes testing may be recommended as part of prenatal care. Herpes infection during pregnancy can pose risks to the baby, particularly if contracted near the time of delivery, so early detection and management are essential.
Routine Screening: In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend routine STI screening, including herpes testing, as part of preventive healthcare, especially for those at increased risk of STIs, such as sexually active young adults or men who have sex with men.
Partner Discloses Herpes: If a sexual partner discloses a herpes infection or experiences symptoms suggestive of herpes, getting tested is advised, even if you do not have symptoms yourself. Testing can help determine your infection status and guide appropriate precautions to prevent transmission.
Understanding Test Results
Understanding herpes test results can help determine infection status accurately. Here’s what different test results may indicate:
Positive Test Results: A positive test result means that the test detected the presence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) antibodies or viral DNA in your sample. If you test positive for HSV antibodies in a blood test, it indicates that you have been exposed to the virus at some point in the past. However, it may not necessarily indicate a current infection.
Negative Test Results: A negative test result means the test did not detect evidence of herpes virus antibodies or viral DNA in your sample. If you have a negative blood test result, it may indicate that you have not been exposed to the virus or that your body has not yet produced detectable levels of antibodies, particularly if you were recently infected.
Indeterminate Results: In some cases, test results may be indeterminate or equivocal, meaning they cannot definitively confirm or rule out herpes infection. Indeterminate results may occur when antibody levels are borderline or when there is uncertainty in interpreting test findings. If you receive indeterminate results, follow-up testing or consultation with a healthcare provider may be necessary to clarify your infection status and determine the appropriate next steps.
Understanding your herpes test results is just the first step. It’s essential to discuss the implications of your results with a healthcare provider, who can provide guidance on treatment options, risk reduction strategies, and support for managing herpes infections effectively.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for herpes aim to manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, and decrease the risk of transmitting the virus to others. While there is no cure for herpes, several medications and self-care measures can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are common treatment options for herpes:
-
Antiviral Medication: Antiviral drugs work by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus, reducing the duration and severity of outbreaks. Antiviral medications can be taken orally as pills or tablets or applied topically as creams or ointments to affected areas during outbreaks.
-
Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may help ease pain, discomfort, and fever associated with herpes outbreaks. Topical anaesthetics or numbing agents may also provide temporary relief from pain and itching.
-
Self-Care Measures: Practising good hygiene, including keeping the affected area clean and dry, can help prevent secondary infections and promote the healing of herpes sores. Avoiding triggers that may worsen outbreaks, such as stress, fatigue, sun exposure, or certain foods, can help reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences. Using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity can help reduce the risk of transmitting herpes to sexual partners.
-
Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress, can help support the immune system and reduce the likelihood of herpes outbreaks. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can also help minimise triggers and promote overall health.
-
Counselling and Support: Living with herpes can be emotionally challenging due to stigma, misconceptions, and concerns about transmission. Counselling, support groups, or therapy can provide emotional support, education, and coping strategies for managing the psychological impact of herpes infections.
It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalised treatment recommendations based on individual circumstances, symptoms, and medical history. With proper management and support, individuals with herpes can lead fulfilling lives and maintain healthy relationships while effectively managing their condition.
