Herpes Testing in London

Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types: HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, leading to cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection. Genital herpes can be managed with medication. Our STI clinic in London offers confidential and accurate herpes testing with quick results to guide treatment options.

Causes

HSV-1 and HSV-2 can spread due to direct contact with this virus. It may even transmit when sores are not visible anymore.

HSV-1 may be contracted through sharing toothbrushes, eating utensils, mouth contact, and other things that come in contact with the saliva or sores of an infected person. People with an active outbreak of symptoms have greater chances of spreading the virus.

HSV-2 is spread mostly through anal, vaginal, and oral sex. Any contact with bodily fluids, sores, and saliva may transmit HSV-1.

Genital herpes can be transferred from a pregnant mother to her child at the time of childbirth.

When should I get tested?

An individual who already has the herpes simplex virus might not show any noticeable symptoms, though the person can spread this virus to another person. When HSV symptoms occur, they do so in outbreaks that are meant to last from 2 – 6 weeks, based on the kind of virus you have.

Symptoms:

• Itchy single or multiple blisters on infected areas that occur after the first twenty days of contracting the infection. Blisters may last for 7 – 10 days
• Flu-like symptoms
• Infection in the eyes
• Difficulty in urinating
• Tender sores

What does the test include?

The herpes testing procedure involves either a swab of the affected area or a blood test. The method used depends on the individual case and the physician's assessment. In the case of a swab test, a healthcare professional will gently swab the area with visible symptoms to collect a sample for testing. For a blood test, a sample of blood will be drawn to check for the presence of herpes antibodies, which can indicate a past or present infection.

What to Expect

NOTE: If you need to conduct a Herpes Swab Test, then there is a consultation fee of £150 only.

FAQS

How long after exposure to herpes will you test positive?

If the infection has occurred recently, the test may be negative, yet you may still have the infection. This is known as a false negative. It may take nearly 3 months after possible exposure to herpes for the test to show a positive result.

How can I avoid passing on the herpes virus?

There isn’t any certain way of preventing the spread of herpes simplex, as barrier contraceptive methods do not always work. The most effective way to avoid passing this virus to your partner is to abstain from sexual contact during an outbreak of blisters or sores. 

What can lead to herpes outbreaks?

Outbreaks of genital herpes are generally triggered by the immune system coming under pressure, whether due to illness, stress, feeling down, or other factors.