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The 6 best herpes test kits for 2024, according to experts
Skip the trip to the doctor with these at-home herpes test kits
The World Health Organization reports that 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the main cause of oral herpes, while an estimated 491 million people ages 15 to 49 have herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), the main cause of genital herpes. In the U.S., more than half the population between the ages of 14 and 49 have some form of herpes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yet, despite how prevalent this infection is, when going to your doctor specifically for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) panel, herpes is not typically included in the screening unless requested by you, or your doctor has reason to believe you have herpes through evidence of an outbreak.
STDCheck Herpes Test
Best at-home herpes test for fast results
HSV Kit: Herpes At-Home Test
Best at-home herpes test for ease of use
HealthLabs Herpes Type 2 Test (HSV-2)
Best at-home herpes test for budget
MyLAB Box
Best at-home herpes test with medical support
Priority STD Testing Herpes Early Detection Test
Best at-home herpes test for early detection
Thankfully, there are at-home herpes test kits that can give you the answers you need without a trip to the doctor. “At-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly,” Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, tells us, adding that not all herpes tests are created equal.
To help us better understand what to look for in the best at-home herpes tests, we spoke with a panel of medical experts who specialize in sexual and reproductive health to get their input on what to look for in a self-administered herpes test and what to avoid. We then used the expert input to research the top OTC herpes tests and rated each based on cost, ease of use, time to results and medical support offered. Here’s our picks for the best at-home herpes tests.
Cost: $79 | Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2 | Time for results: One or two days | Test collection method: Blood sample at the lab | Doctor consultation available: Yes, cost of $95 | Accepts insurance: No, but reimbursement may be available | FSA/HSA eligible: Yes | Free shipping: N/A; lab collection
If you’re looking for fast results, STDcheck.com is your best bet, with results ready in just one or two days. The only catch is that, even though you will order the test online, you’ll need to go to one of STDCheck’s 4,500 CLIA- and CAP-certified labs located throughout the U.S. to have your blood drawn. There are no appointments necessary, and you can visit a test center as soon as your order is placed.
While less convenient than a fully at-home test, it also means that if you are queasy about taking your blood sample or worried about making a mistake while self-administering the test, this is a great option, and you’ll get your results faster than sending your sample by mail — which is the only other option since there aren’t any rapid at-home herpes test available to date. Another feature we love about STDCheck.com is if you test positive, for an additional $95 consultation fee, your partner can be treated as well.
- Results ready within 1- 2 days
- Should you test positive, prescriptions can be called in for you partner as well
- FSA and HSA payments accepted
- $95 fee for doctor consultation
- Requires in-person lab visit
Cost: $79.95 | Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2 | Time for results: Two to five days | Test collection method: Swab of open sore | Doctor consultation available: No, but additional medical resources provided for positive results | Accepts insurance: No | FSA/HSA eligible: No | Free shipping: Yes
Finding an unidentifiable bump down there is always nerve-racking, but it’s not always easy to determine whether or not it’s herpes. Many people are asymptomatic or have a mild case, which could easily be confused with an ingrown hair or a pimple. The at-home herpes test from 247Labkit offers an easy, affordable way to determine whether you have an outbreak or something else.
Instead of a blood sample, the test is done using a swab of the sore. Of course, this means it’s only beneficial for those with a visible sore or lesion, but it’s an easier, less invasive testing method than a blood draw. Once you take a swab of the sore on your mouth, lips or genital area, you’ll mail it to a CAP- and CLIA-certified lab. Your results will be sent to you via email within three to four days. Although the turnaround time is fairly standard, it’s worth noting that 247Labkit uses economy shipping rather than standard or priority, which is typically a slower service. You can, however, opt for first-class or next-day shipping for an additional fee of $15 or $22, respectively.
- Swab instead of blood sample
- Next-day shipping available
- HSA/FSA not accepted
- Must have an outbreak to test
Cost: $45 | Tests for: HSV-2 Time for results: Three days or less | Test collection method: Blood sample at lab | Doctor consultation available: Yes, for $95 fee | Accepts insurance: No | FSA/HSA eligible: Yes | Free shipping: N/A; lab collection
STD testing isn’t exactly the type of thing you want to be too frugal about, but at the same time, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. HealthLabs.com has an extensive — and budget-friendly — catalog of STI tests, with results ready in three days or less. Additionally, HealthLabs.com offers a 110% price guarantee, so if you find a test from another company at a lower price, HealthLabs will match it and give you an additional 10% discount. You can also use your FSA or HSA funds to pay for the test.
If you’re concerned about genital herpes, there are several tests to choose from, but the least expensive option would be the single HSV test. The Herpes Type-2 Test measures type-specific HSV-2 antibodies in the blood and costs $45. (You can also get an HSV-1 specific test for the same price.) Other herpes testing options from HealthLabs.com include:
Herpes Type 1 and 2 Panel – tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2 for $79
Viral STD Panel – tests for herpes (type 1 and 2), HIV-1, HIV-2, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C for $109
Comprehensive STD Panel – tests for herpes (HSV-1 and 2), HIV (type 1 and 2), chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and hepatitis A, B, and C for $139
Ultimate STD Panel – tests for everything in the Comprehensive STD panel plus Trichomoniasis along with early detection RNA testing for HIV for $349
While there are health education specialists who can help you interpret your results at no cost, if you test positive and want a doctor consultation, there’s a $95 fee.
- Option to test for HSV-1, HSV-2, or both
- Offers price match guarantee
- Results ready within 3 days
- Doctor consultation costs extra
- Requires lab visit
Cost: $89 | Tests for: HSV-2 | Time for results: Two to five days | Test collection method: Finger prick | Doctor consultation available: Yes | Accepts insurance: No |FSA/HSA eligible: Yes | Free shipping: Yes
While many STD testing companies offer follow-up medical support, most of the time, it’s not free. With the At-Home Herpes Test from MyLab Box, however, if your result is positive, you can schedule a virtual doctor consultation at no extra cost.
The test itself is done entirely from the comfort of your home and only requires a small blood sample. Instead of a test tube, myLab Box uses dried blood spot testing (DBS), so after pricking your finger, you’ll add a few drops of blood to the enclosed DBS card. One of the biggest benefits of DBS testing is that samples are easily transported, meaning you can send it back any day or time of the week with no restrictions. On the other hand, companies that use test tubes for blood collection typically require that a sample is mailed back Monday through Thursday or Friday in the morning.
You’ll get your result in two to five days, and If positive, you can schedule a free phone consultation with a doctor to discuss treatment options and next steps. It's worth noting that MyLab Box only offers testing for HSV-2. Although most of the time, genital herpes is caused by HSV-2, but it’s important to remember that you can get genital herpes from HSV-1.
- Free doctor consultation with a positive result
- Discreet packaging with free, two-way shipping
- No stipulations on when you can test
- Not available in New York
- Only screens for HSV-2
Cost: $189 | Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2 | Time for results: Three to five days | Test collection method: Urine and blood sample at lab | Doctor consultation available: Yes, consult fee is $65 | Accepts insurance: No, but reimbursement is available | FSA/HSA eligible: Yes | Free shipping: NA; lab collection
Most at-home herpes tests recommend waiting until a minimum of 12 days after suspected exposure to use the test. However, if you’re looking to get tested as soon as possible for your own peace of mind, Priority STD offers an early detection herpes test, which can detect infection as early as 10 days after exposure.
Following infection, your body will produce certain antibodies — immunoglobulin G (IgG), which can take three to six weeks to appear, and immunoglobulin M (IgM), which is the first antibody to appear and takes up to 10 days. The early detection herpes test, then, uses IgM testing for the earliest possible way to determine whether or not you have HSV antibodies.
It’s important to note that IgM antibodies may only last a few months and aren’t always produced after the first outbreak, whereas IgG antibodies last a lifetime. Because of that, IgG tests are typically preferred, but if you need to find out ASAP, the IgM test will give you an immediate answer.
With Priority STD, you’ll order your test online and then visit one of the company's 4,000 test centers. No appointment is necessary, and the process of getting tested — a blood and urine sample — takes about 15 minutes, and the results will be ready in three to five days. If your result is positive, you can schedule a phone consultation with a doctor for $65, but the company does not provide treatment for herpes. There is, however, the option to call and speak to one of the care counselors for free and discuss the next steps.
- Detects herpes earlier than standard tests
- Care counselors available 24/7
- FSA and HSA payments are accepted
- More expensive than other tests
- Requires lab visit
- Treatment not available for herpes
How do at-home herpes tests work?
Herpes is primarily detected in one of two ways: through antibodies in the blood or by the presence of the virus in a lesion. Urine tests are less common but can be used in combination with another sample method to ensure accuracy.
To date, there are not any fully at-home rapid tests that can detect the herpes virus, so all “at-home” tests require you to prepurchase the test online, then either collect the sample yourself and mail it to the lab in a prepaid shipping envelope, or visit a certified lab to have the sample specimen taken for you. Regardless of the option you choose, at-home herpes tests offer the ability to get tested without making an appointment with your primary care doctor or worrying about being underinsured and unable to get a test.
How we chose the best at-home herpes test
To find the best at-home herpes tests on the market today, we began by consulting with a panel of medical experts who specialize in sexual health, urology and reproductive and women’s health. Our team then researched a broad spectrum of at-home HSV tests and rated each based on cost, types of herpes viruses tested, accuracy, collection method, and turnaround time. In addition, we considered the company’s reputation and follow-up support. Specifically, we looked at whether or not the option for a health care consultation or treatment was available. After compiling the data, we narrowed down our list of the best of the best herpes tests according to specific testing needs, such as best if medical care were included in the cost of the test, budget, early detection and fast turnaround.
How to choose the best at-home herpes test for your needs
Choosing the right herpes test for you is a personal decision and will depend on your specific needs. Before making a decision, it’s a good idea to consider certain factors:
Type of test: HSV-1 is generally considered the virus responsible for oral herpes, whereas genital herpes is associated more with HSV-2. However, since genital herpes can come from either herpes virus, tests that look for both types of of the virus will be more accurate. On the other hand, tests that screen only for HSV-2 will be more cost-effective.
Collection method: Herpes can be detected using a blood sample or a swab of the lesion if an outbreak is present. According to Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group, taking a swab of the sore itself is the most accurate type of test, but it’s also more prone to user error than a blood sample. A swab sample also requires an active outbreak, whereas a blood test can determine whether or not you’ve been exposed to the virus even when an outbreak is not present.
Time until results: The last thing you want to do when getting an STD test is sit around and wait for the results. Certain tests offer shorter wait times, while others might take a bit longer. All the tests on this list have a turnaround time of between one and five days.
Medical support included: If you test positive, does the company offer any type of medical support? If a medical consultation is available, is it free or does it cost extra? Additionally, is treatment or a prescribing provider available?
Cost: Along with the cost of the actual test, consider whether or not there are additional fees for shipping, follow-up support and treatment options. Also, consider whether or not FSA/HSA payments are accepted.
Accuracy: For the most accurate results, look for a company that uses CAP- and CLIA-certified labs.
Privacy: Most at-home herpes tests don’t accept insurance or require extensive identifying information outside of name and address, which can go a long way toward protecting your privacy. Additionally, look for a company that offers discreet shipping packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is herpes?
Herpes is a virus that causes skin infections and painful sores on the body, primarily around the mouth and genital areas. Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine, women’s health, and urology, tells us: "There are several types of herpes including varicella-zoster, the virus responsible for chicken pox. But the herpes simplex virus – or HSV – comes in two forms:
HSV-1 mainly causes oral herpes – also known as cold sores
HSV-2 is associated with genital herpes
How do you get herpes?
HSV-1 is spread through skin-to-skin contact and saliva and mainly causes oral herpes — also known as cold sores. HSV-2, on the other hand, is usually spread through sexual contact resulting in genital herpes.
Although herpes is most contagious during an outbreak, herpes simplex 1 and 2 can also be transmitted when there are no visible sores or symptoms. And unlike most other STDs that can only be spread through bodily fluids, HSV 1 and 2 can be transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact.
“Both types of herpes can cause small, painful blisters around the site of the infection,” says Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health. Moreover, both types can infect your face or genitals. Although HSV-2 is responsible for most cases of genital herpes, you can get genital herpes from HSV-1 (and vice versa).
What are the first signs of herpes?
Painful sores or blisters are the most common symptom of herpes, Purdie tells us. With oral herpes, there is typically just one blister, whereas genital herpes often appears in a cluster. Other common signs can include:
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Headaches
Body and muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or groin area
Tingling, burning or itching sensation
Unusual vaginal discharge
Painful urination
It’s important to note, though, that not everyone who’s infected with herpes will show symptoms. In fact, most people with HSV are asymptomatic and may not even realize they have it.
When should I test for herpes?
You should get tested if you begin to experience symptoms or notice any sores around your genitals, says Hack. One exception would be if you’ve had sex with a partner who has genital herpes. In that case, it’s important to remember that it can take time for your body to develop HSV antibodies. The incubation period for herpes is typically two to 12 days, but it can take even longer. In some cases, it can take up to 16 weeks or more for HSV to be detected in your blood, Fosnight says.
Are at-home herpes tests as accurate as in-person tests?
Our experts agree that at-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly, so it’s crucial you follow the directions for sample collection exactly as stated by the company.
While the most accurate way to detect herpes is through a viral culture or PCR test via a swab of the blister or lesion, “blood tests, which look for HSV antibodies in a blood sample, can be used if you don’t have an active outbreak or sore,” says Hack.
What should I do if my herpes test results are positive?
If you test positive for herpes, the next step should be to consult a health care provider to discuss possible treatment options. While there is no cure, treatments are available to help speed up healing, prevent or shorten outbreaks and reduce the chances of spreading it to partners.
Your doctor may also advise getting retested after a positive test result, especially if you have no symptoms. “No HSV test is perfect, and false results can occur,” says Hack. For example, one study found that herpes IgM testing resulted in many false positives for HSV-2 and many false negatives for HSV-1.
False negatives can occur if the infection is very new since your body hasn’t developed the antibodies yet. On the other hand, false positives can occur due to cross-reactivity. Antibody tests can sometimes react to other viruses in the same family (e.g., HSV-1 or the varicella-zoster virus). In other words, you may test positive for herpes type 2 when, in fact, you only have type 1. Because of that, it’s always a good idea to discuss your results and sexual history with a doctor.
Meet our experts
Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist
Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group
Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine
Dr. Dan Nayot, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist
Dr. Tara Brandner DNP, FNP-C
Dr. Janet Choi, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Progyny
Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health
