Friday, July 26, 2024

At Home Test For Herpes

Questions For Your Doctor About Test Results

Startup delivers STD tests to your home

The following questions may be useful as patients review genital and oral herpes test results with their doctor:

  • What type of test was conducted?
  • What is my test result?
  • What is the most likely explanation for my test result?
  • Are there any follow-up tests that you recommend?
  • How should I discuss my test result with sexual partners?

Also Check: Is There Any Cure For Herpes

Best Convenient Herpes Test: Mylab Box

People can order at-home herpes tests from MyLAB Box. These kits contain instructions, a specimen bag, and a prepaid return envelope. Users may find this test convenient because of its quick turnaround for results and the option to book a free consultation and get treatment.

Collection method
doctor may prescribe treatment if test results are positive
Con only tests for HSV-2

Once a person receives their collection kit, they can collect their sample using the instructions. They can then use the prepaid envelope to send it to the laboratory.

People should receive their results within 25 days. If the test is positive, they can book a free consultation with a doctor to discuss their results and treatment options. The doctor may then prescribe treatment.

This at-home test only works for people who wish to test for genital herpes. The company does not offer test kits for oral herpes.

The kit costs $89 as a stand-alone test, but the company also markets other kits that test for different infections. For example, if a person also wishes to test for other STIs, they can purchase the Total Box 14 Panel option or the Uber Box 8 Panel option.

Who Is Health Testing Centers

Health Testing Centers is not a new actor in the industry. The company has served its customers for more than 30 years. When first opened in 1980, the company was indeed an offline platform headquartered in Fort Lauderdale. In 2008, the company decided to make the tests available to the public through the web. The movement keeps continuing until today.

Health Testing Centers is a home for confidential, easy, and efficient access to know your healths condition through an online platform. The company allows you to take so many kinds of tests easily. You just have to simply visit its official website in healthtestingcenter.com to conduct any test you wish to have. No more anxiety, long queue, and time wasted in waiting and doing the test.

Read Also: Can You Live With Herpes Without Medication

What Happens At A Sexual Health Clinic

The doctor or nurse at the sexual health clinic will:

  • ask about your symptoms and your sexual partners
  • use a small cotton bud to take some fluid from 1 of your blisters or sores for testing

The test cannot:

  • be done if you do not have visible blisters or sores
  • tell you how long you have had herpes or who you got it from

Symptoms might not appear for weeks or even years after youre infected with the herpes virus.

If you have genital herpes, your previous sexual partners should get tested.

The doctor or nurse at the clinic can discuss this with you and help you tell your partners without letting them know its you who has the virus.

If Visible Here Are Some Of The More Common Signs Of An Hsv

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 &  2 Blood Test 5 Test Pack

Vaginal or Pelvic Infection:

  • Swelling or discomfort in the groin nodes
  • Headaches, body aches or flu-like symptoms

Remember, both oral and genital herpes can be spread even if sores are not present.Most cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2, but if you participate in oral sex, keep in mind that the oral variety of HSV can still cause genital herpes. So it pays to test regularly and be honest with your partners.

Read Also: How To Beat Herpes Naturally

Why It Is Done

A test for herpes may be done to:

  • Find out whether HSV is causing sores around the mouth or in the genital area.
  • Find out which virus type is causing sores around the mouth or in the genital area.
  • Find out whether the sex partner of a person with genital herpes may be infected with HSV.
  • Diagnose a herpes infection in a newborn baby whose mother has genital herpes.

Also Check: How To Deal With Herpes On Lips

Is There A Cure For Herpes

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for either type of herpes. Once you are infected, you are usually a carrier for life.

Its not all bad news, though! Herpes symptoms can be treated and relieved with the proper medication. These can lower the frequency of your outbreaks and relieve the pain that comes with the symptoms. These treatments can also shorten the amount of time that each outbreak lasts. Some can even make it less likely for the HSV infection to be passed on to your partner.

Recommended Reading: Topical Cream For Genital Herpes

Why Have False Positive Tests Been Used As An Argument Against Routine Testing For Genital Herpes But Not For Other Stds Which Can Also Have False Positives

False positive test results are test results that say a person has a disease or condition when they do not actually have it. False positive results can occur with many diagnostic tests, including STD tests. The chances of false positive results increase as the likelihood of the infection decreases in the person being tested. False positive HSV-2 results can happen, especially in people who are at low risk for a herpes infection. Also, we do not know if people who test positive for herpes will change their sexual behavior as a result of a positive test. This tells us that the harm of a possible false positive test may be a greater concern than the benefits of an actual diagnosis. Unlike curable STDs, such as chlamydia, herpes infections are life-long, so it is especially important to avoid a false positive test.

What Affects The Test

Home #STD Testing: Why Get Tested & How It Works

Reasons you may not be able to have the test or why the results may not be helpful include:

  • If a culture sample is taken from a crusted, older sore.
  • If a blood sample is taken before antibodies against HSV have formed. This period is called the window period or seroconversion period.
  • If you are taking antiviral medicines, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, ganciclovir, or valacyclovir.

Read Also: Can You Get Herpes From Kissing Someone

Read Also: Can You Spread Herpes On Medication

Will I Have To Pay For The Test Out Of Pocket

Youll have to check with your insurance network to see whether at-home STI tests are covered.

Insurance does typically cover them, but sites like Everlywell recommend verifying the purchase with your insurance.

Additionally, some networks may reimburse you for your purchase.

However, most at-home testing sites arent currently partnered with any insurance companies, which means youll have to reach out yourself.

If you dont have insurance, youll likely have to pay for the test out of pocket. Some sites like Priority STD dont accept insurance, so its a flat rate of $99 regardless of your coverage.

What Are They Doing At Stdcheckcom

STDcheck collaborates with more than 4,500 labs and testing centers across the countries to provide reliable yet affordable STD testings. STDcheck offers private STD testing with confidential results where nobody can t access it including the insurance company. STDcheck discreetly in providing the STDs lab tests for their customers. The results are quick and accurate, you can get them within 1-2 days after the test. If you want to consult your results, youll be able to speak to one of STDchecks doctors for medical advises and treatments.

All the laboratories affiliated with STDcheck are CLIA-Certified Labs. You can visit the local lab on the same day you order STD test via STDcheck. Its also well known for its 10-Test Panel which already covers common STDs including Syphilis, Gonorrhea, HIV 1& 2, Hepatitis A B C, Chlamydia, and Herpes 1& 2. Its very helpful especially when you dont know what STD individual test should be taken or as you need a more comprehensive answer regarding your STD condition. Your privacy is completely protected since all STDchecks tests comply with the HIPAA Privacy Rule.

Read Also: How To Take Valacyclovir For Herpes

Who Should Take The Herpes Blood Test

Although there are certain risk groups who are particularly affected by herpes, such as those having unprotected sex, people with prior STIs, and those with a compromised immune system, anyone can become infected with the virus. This being said, the virus is often found in sexually active people having more sexual partners increases your risk of becoming infected.

In general, herpes lab tests are also recommended for people who experience symptoms or whose partner has tested positive for herpes.

Can I Get Herpes From A Toilet

At

Because the virus dies so quickly outside the body, its almost impossible to contract the infection when you come into contact with a toilet seat. It is also unlikely that you can be infected by an object that was used by an infected person. For example, if youre at the gym and sit on a workout bench that was first used by someone with herpes.

Also Check: Cure For Herpes Hsv 1

You Got A Positive Herpes Test Now What

If you receive a positive herpes test, start by educating yourself about the herpes virus. There are many pervasive herpes myths that you shouldnt believe. The truth is that herpes is treatable and outbreaks can even be minimized or prevented with the right treatment measures.

Genital herpes and cold sores can both be addressed with a variety of household remedies, over-the-counter options, and prescription medications.

Acyclovir, for example, is an antiviral medication that treats infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including genital herpes. Its best to start taking acyclovir as soon as you notice the first signs of an emerging outbreak. This medication stops the herpes virus from growing and spreading during an outbreak, although it cannot remove the virus from your body completely. Most people experience relief within just a few days of taking acyclovir.

If youre looking for a natural therapy to control herpes outbreaks, the Luminance RED is another option. The Luminance RED handheld devices shine red wavelengths of light over the skin of affected areas. The company has one device designed for oral herpes and one for genital herpes.

Medically-optimized red light is metabolized to accelerate the bodys healing process and strengthen its defenses against future attacks. Studies show that regular use of high-powered light treatment not only shortens the healing time of active outbreaks but can also prevent future outbreaks altogether.

How Does Genital Herpes Spread

The herpes virus that causes genital herpes spreads through saliva, semen and vaginal secretions. Its possible to get genital herpes from someone who doesnt have visible symptoms. You can have the infection, not know it and infect someone else.

Research has found it is possible for genital herpes to spread through:

  • Oral sex with someone whos infected.
  • Skin-to-skin contact without ejaculation.
  • Touching open sores, including while breastfeeding.
  • Childbirth by a mother who has an active infection.

You cant get genital herpes from objects like toilet seats. But you could pass genital herpes through shared sex toys.

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Heres Why Doctors Dont Usually Test For Herpes

Its basically a SELF mantra at this point: Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections is hella important. Is it the most delightful way to spend your time? No. Is it a vital part of looking after your health, sexual and otherwise? Absolutely.

When you go in for routine STI testing, you might realize that your doctor doesnt test you for herpes. Whats that about? As it turns out, testing for herpes isnt as straightforward as testing for something like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Here, doctors explain why herpes isnt usually included on STI panels.

How Can I Prevent Transmitting Herpes

Understanding Herpes Testing

Although latex condoms can reduce the risk of transmitting most STIs by 98 percent, condoms dont prevent herpes transmission. This is because not all herpes sores occur in areas that are covered by a condom.

If youre experiencing an active outbreak, you can

  • avoiding sexual activity until symptoms go away
  • washing your hands thoroughly and applying medication with cotton swabs to reduce contact with sores

Taking a daily antiviral herpes medication can also help prevent transmission, shorten outbreaks, and manage symptoms.

Also Check: How To Check For Genital Herpes

How Rapid Std Testing Works

The main advantage of the Rapid STD Testing Service is that anyone who wants to get tested can order easily from their website. Either through call or through online booking they can order from anywhere since the site is open to all. To find the nearby test center they have given location finder in the website using which the person can find the nearest test center which will be easy for the person.

Priority STD Testing Same Day STD Testing Online

Price: from $59

MyLAB Box At Home Wellness Tests & At home Health Testing

Availability: United States

Visit Site: www.mylabbox.com

Best Subscription For Herpes Test: Letsgetchecked

The LetsGetChecked home kits can test for both HSV-1 and HSV-2. This test kit may be best for people who require regular testing as the companys subscription options can offer significant discounts.

Collection method
nurses available through LetsGetChecked to discuss positive results
Cost
tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2
Con does not accept insurance

A person receives a collection kit with all the tools they need to collect their samples at home. This includes needles, a prepaid envelope, alcohol swabs, and a tube. The tests come in discreet packaging so that other people will not know what the person has received.

The person also has access to an instruction video on the company website that explains how they should take their test. LetsGetChecked suggests that people take a blood sample before 9 a.m. and return it to the laboratory on the same day.

The company states that it issues the results within 25 days.

Individuals who receive a positive result can contact a nurse through the company, and they may suggest a treatment plan.

LetsGetChecked offers a one-time purchase for $119. Anyone who requires regular testing can purchase a LetsGetChecked subscription and get discounts on its tests. For instance, a 3-monthly subscription will give a person a 30% saving on the cost of the kits.

Read Also: How Soon Can I Test For Herpes

What To Do With Your Herpes Test Results

At-home health testing companies like LetsGetChecked may give you access to health professionals. They can discuss your test results and explain what they mean.

However, its important that you seek medical advice if you:

  • Test positive for herpes
  • Think you have a false positive
  • Have other sexual health concerns

Your doctor can guide you on the next steps and provide the medications you need to recover.

If your test returns negative, its a reminder to practice safe sex. This reduces your exposure to sexually transmitted diseases .

How Much Do At

UW study questions standard herpes test

Most insurance companies do not cover herpes testing, either at-home or in-person. At-home tests cost an average of around $120 to $130, although some companies offer a discount for people who subscribe to regular testing. If your insurance does cover herpes testing, consider using one of the companies that bill insurance. This may be able to reduce your cost significantly. In some instances, you may be able to get reimbursed by your insurance company for testing.

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How Is Herpes Treated

Herpes cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Medications are available that can prevent or shorten the duration of herpes outbreaks. There is a medicine that you can take on a daily basis that can help prevent outbreaks and also lower your risk of spreading the virus to others. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir can suppress outbreaks and shorten the duration of symptoms and active shedding of virus.

Why Should I Get Tested

Genital herpes does not often show signs or symptoms until you have an outbreak. If you have had unprotected sex with someone who has genital herpes, then you may have caught it too. It is important to get tested so that you do not pass it on to someone else.

It is very important to get tested if you are a pregnant woman and have a partner with genital herpes. This is because your baby could also become infected if you get genital herpes too. Herpes infections in babies can be life-threatening.

Read Also: Can You Spread Herpes If Its Dormant

How Health Testing Centers Works

Once you sign in on their official website , you can order the testing you wish to have online. Then, you can come to the nearest lab for about 5 minutes to do the test. The people in the lab will not be informed of what kind of testing you are doing. The result will be sent to you via email a few days after the test. Checking your health can never be as simple as that.

Health Testing Centers is a legitimate and reliable online platform for you to conduct any testing. Confidentiality is a key service of the company. Moreover, this company is also supported by FDA approved testing and CLIA certified labs.

Everlywell Innovative at-home Health Testing & Self-Test Kits

Availability: United States

How To Get Rid Of Genital Herpes Fast: Is It Possible

Discontinuation of Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) IgM Testing

The herpes simplex virus type 2, better known as genital herpes, is a sexually transmitted infection without a known cure. Although its not yet possible to permanently get rid of genital herpes, a number of techniques are proven to speed up the recovery of an outbreak and reduce unwanted symptoms.

You may recognize a genital herpes outbreak by the appearance of blisters and lesions. Most people experience their first outbreak two to 12 days after initial exposure to the virus. After the blisters break, it may take up to four weeks for herpes ulcers to heal.

After the first outbreak, recurring outbreaks are common but dont last nearly as long. Sores tend to heal within three to seven days in recurring outbreaks, and the number of outbreak periods may even decrease over time.

Recommended Reading: Why Do I Keep Having Genital Herpes Outbreaks

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