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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

STD

Herpes Simplex 2 IgG

The HSV-2 IgG test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2, which primarily causes genital herpes. Many carriers of HSV-2 are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, making testing an important tool for understanding your status.

What It Measures

This test measures IgG antibodies specific to herpes simplex virus type 2 in your blood. IgG antibodies are produced after initial infection and persist in the body indefinitely, serving as a marker of HSV-2 exposure.

A positive result confirms that you have been infected with HSV-2, though it cannot determine when the infection occurred or predict the frequency of outbreaks. It is important to note that many people with HSV-2 are unaware they carry the virus.

Why It Matters

Knowing your HSV-2 status is valuable for managing your sexual health and reducing the risk of transmission to partners. HSV-2 can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact even when no visible symptoms are present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic shedding.

For individuals who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, HSV-2 status is particularly relevant, as the virus can be transmitted to a newborn during delivery. Antiviral therapy can help manage outbreaks and reduce transmission risk.

When to Test

Testing may be considered when you experience symptoms suggestive of genital herpes, when a sexual partner has been diagnosed with HSV-2, or as part of a comprehensive STI evaluation. It may also be relevant during pregnancy planning.

IgG antibodies typically take two to twelve weeks to develop after initial infection. For accurate results, testing is recommended at least twelve weeks after potential exposure.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Negative result indicates no HSV-2 exposure. Practice safe sexual practices.

If High

Positive result indicates past HSV-2 exposure. Discuss disclosure with partners and consider daily antiviral therapy to reduce transmission risk.

Female

If Low

Negative result indicates no HSV-2 exposure. Practice safe sexual practices.

If High

Positive result indicates past HSV-2 exposure. Discuss disclosure with partners and consider daily antiviral therapy to reduce transmission risk.

Lifestyle Tips

If you have HSV-2, antiviral suppressive therapy can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission to partners. Consistent condom use further decreases transmission risk, though it does not eliminate it entirely as the virus can shed from areas not covered by condoms.

Avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks. Manage stress, get adequate sleep, and maintain a healthy immune system, as these factors can influence outbreak frequency. Open and honest communication with partners about your status supports healthy relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have HSV-2 without ever having symptoms?
Yes, many people with HSV-2 never experience noticeable symptoms or have symptoms so mild they go unrecognised. This is why testing is important, as the virus can still be transmitted through asymptomatic shedding.
Can HSV-2 be transmitted when there are no sores?
Yes, HSV-2 can be transmitted through asymptomatic viral shedding, when the virus is active on the skin surface without causing visible sores. Antiviral therapy and condom use can help reduce this risk.
What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
HSV-1 traditionally causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes. However, either type can infect either location. HSV-2 tends to cause more frequent genital recurrences than HSV-1 genital infections.