Table of Content
Avoid washing your genitals too often when you have an outbreak, as this wont help to alleviate the symptoms. The At-Home Herpes Test from myLAB Box is our top pick for discreet shipping. Test kits are shipped in inconspicuous packaging and include a low-profile return envelope. It is best to leave the pimples or blisters alone to heal on their own, but if they are too uncomfortable or painful, talk to your doctor. But outbreaks usually settle by themselves, so you may not need treatment. Depending on your income, you may even be able to get tests for free.

They will also evaluate you for signs or symptoms of herpes to choose which tests to use. This is why it’s important to talk openly and honestly with your provider during your visit. Ask them which infections they areandare nottesting you for and why. Basic fact sheets are presented in plain language for individuals with general questions about sexually transmitted diseases. This page will help you understand CDC’s herpes testing recommendations.
When should a person test for herpes?
PlushCare is a good option for people who want to discuss their herpes and other STI risks with a health professional. It is not a good option for people interested in at-home herpes testing because they’re not comfortable talking about sexual health with their doctor. Given that the herpes virus doesn’t always trigger outbreaks and symptoms, testing is an important way to monitor your health.

Though it may not be as accurate as a full in-person blood test in a lab, it could be a good option for someone who is hesitant or unable to see a doctor or visit a lab in person. In choosing a herpes test, you might want to find one that tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, has discreet packaging. After a person’s first outbreak of genital or oral herpes, the virus initially infects a person’s skin cells and eventually moves to their nerve cells. The virus may stay inactive in the nerve cells forever without causing another outbreak, or it may become active again in the future. If you are sexually active, talk openly and honestly with your healthcare provider about what tests are right for you. Like pimples, you may be tempted to pop a cold sore or a herpes blister, but by popping, you are only doing more harm.
How To Diagnose Herpes
When you join the LetsGetChecked subscription service, testing is easy and convenient as you receive everything you need to take your sample in a discrete kit through the mail. Once you complete your order online, you can select a local testing center based on your ZIP code. According to the company, in-person tests only take 5 minutes. If you haven’t experienced an initial outbreak, the best time to get tested for herpes is 12 days after exposure since the incubation period is 2 to 12 days. Our services are here to support you and one of our experienced clinicians will discuss your treatment options during your appointment.

The idea of getting tested may seem scary, but try to chill out. STD testing is a regular part of being a responsible adult and taking care of your health. If you dont have any sores, talk with your doctor or nurse about whether a blood test for herpes makes sense for you.
Treatment If The Blisters Come Back
People who receive a positive test result should contact a doctor to discuss treatment options or a follow-up test. Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by a virus that infects genital areas. And on top of that, most of these people are actually unaware they have the infection. The test kit includes a lancet, blood card, biohazard bag and shipping package. After collecting your sample, allow the blood card to dry on a flat surface for 15 minutes.

One in five people in the USA are positive for herpes type 2, and the rate is even higher if only women are included. Most people pass it along without knowing they are infected. Joining a support group of others who suffer from genital herpes can offer you unconditional support from others who understand what you’re experiencing.
Can You Donate Organs If You Have Herpes
If you see your GP or visit a GUM clinic, they will ask a number of questions about your condition before providing a diagnosis. Your doctor will most likely ask you about your symptoms, recent sexual encounters, your STI history, whether you use condoms and whether you are taking any medication. You should use your consultation to ask any questions you may have with regards to your condition, your risk of STIs and how to avoid infecting future partners. If Herpes is left untreated, there is an increased risk of getting other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists works with CDC to determine if a particular disease should be nationally notifiable. Information on HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections already exists in NHANES, so herpes infections have not been classified as notifiable diseases.
Simply, after each meal, wash your lips by using milk of magnesia . This step will help to safeguards the herpes blister from the spicy foods causing discomfort. Washing your mouth with this milk of magnesia regularly will also help to alleviate pain and inflammation. With high antioxidants properties, olive oil treats this infection by triggering the viral infections. It also soothes the skin and reduces the irritation and itching sensation on the lips skin since it comes with moisturizing properties.
For STD testing, there are three tiered options for you to choose from. Refunds If you change your mind after ordering your kit, you may incur fees. For example, Health Testing Centers will send you a refund if you cancel your order prior to sending off samples, minus $25 which covers the shipping and kit costs.

A blood test can determine whether you have these antibodies. After scheduling an order, you’ll be directed to find a lab near you. There are more than 4,000 labs to choose from, and you can use the site’s online scheduling system to make an appointment.
Breastfeeding babies can also get HSV-1 from the breast if there are lesions present. But babies cant get herpes from breast milk, so its safe to pump and feed. This form enables patients to ask specific questions about lab tests. Your questions will be answered by a laboratory scientist as part of a voluntary service provided by one of our partners, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.