Herpes Type 2 Test Kit

What is Herpes?

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease, caused by the herpes simplex virus. While the viral infection rarely exacerbates symptoms, those who are infected (even in the absence of signs) can still spread the infection to their partners. According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, herpes can be caused by two different types: the herpes simplex virus type one (that is commonly called oral herpes), and the herpes simplex virus type two (referred to as genital herpes). Despite the designated locations of these viruses, cross contamination can occur. One having unprotected oral sex can spread type one herpes from their mouth to the genitals of their sexual partner who may end up with an oral herpes infection in the genitals. The opposite situation can also happen.

A woman can contract both types of herpes in her vagina, through unprotected oral and vaginal sex. This can happen by coming in contact with a herpes sore, saliva or genital secretions of an infected partner. It is not common to contract herpes in the vagina from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools. Genital herpes is a more common vaginal infection than oral herpes.

A herpes virus infecting a woman can lead to many symptoms including having an itch and tingle feeling, as well as pain and burning in the vagina. Small fluid-filled blisters can show on the vulva and vaginal opening. These can rupture and lead to painful ulcers. Many women develop cervicitis, which is the inflammation of the cervix. Other non-localized symptoms include flu like signs and fever.

The most encountered symptoms of genital herpes in men include having cracked, raw, or red areas around the genitals that are not painful, itchy, or tingling. But these can happen around the genitals. Other symptoms include feeling pain when the urine passes over the sores, backaches, flu like symptoms including swollen lymph nodes, and small blisters appearing on the penis that could crack and lead to painful sores.

Why take the at-home Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 test?

 This discreet at-home test can screen for and detect possible herpes type-2 infection. This will help the infected person understand their status and seek treatment the earliest possible. Some vaginal herpes infections could spread further and lead to bladder infections, causing the swelling of the urethra. The urethral inflammation would then require the insertion of a catheter to drain the bladder.

It is essential for pregnant women to be tested for vaginal infections of herpes to avoid putting their newborn at high risks for health complications. A pregnant woman whose vagina is infected with herpes (type-1 or -2) can transmit the virus to her newborn. Babies who are infected with congenital herpes can end up with a skin infection; or, more severe complications such as brain damages, breathing problems and seizures. According to the Boston Children Hospital, congenital herpes is affecting 30 out of 100,000 newborns. It is a life-threatening condition that needs to be prevented by getting every pregnant woman tested for herpes in her first term, and retested if she is at high risk. Most of the congenital infections are happening to babies born to mothers who had no history of herpes and therefore were not tested prior to giving birth.

Also, getting tested will lower the risk of spreading the virus to people at high risk of getting severe complications caused by this virus. This includes elderly, young children, and immunocompromised adults.

What your at-home Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 test results mean?

A positive test indicates the presence of an active herpes infection. . A negative test can indicate that the virus is absent, or that it cannot be detected.

The best way to prevent contracting herpes, is to be in a monogamous sexual relationship with someone who is not infected with any kind of STD. Also, using condoms correctly every time you have sex can hep protect you and your partner. While condoms and dams are highly advised, they do not offer a complete protection against the virus. Finally, those who are tested positive for herpes need to follow a lifelong treatment and practice safe sex, to minimize the chance of spreading the infection to their partner.

Where can I get an at-home Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 test?

This test kit will be mailed to you via USPS. You will receive a dried blood spot card, as well as other test kit materials. Please review all instructions prior to performing this test. Specimens should be shipped via USPS back to the laboratory. Results take 2 - 3 days upon receipt of the specimen by the laboratory.

TEST KIT REFUND POLICY- Kits can be cancelled anytime prior to sending the specimen to the lab.  There is a $25 fee to cover the kit costs and shipping. So a full refund is minus $25.

TEST COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS PDF