Blood tests

Type-specific serology is a blood test that confirms if you have come into contact with the genital herpes virus. It does not, however, tell you if a sore has been caused by the herpes virus.

  • This test is best done at least two weeks after exposure to the virus.
  • If you are tested before this time, the results may be inaccurate.

Fast fact

Swab tests (viral
culture and PCR)
are the most
common tests for
genital herpes.