If you're wondering if herpes is included in a standard STD panel, the answer is usually no. Herpes isn't typically included in these tests, and the CDC recommends that people who have genital symptoms get tested for herpes to confirm if they have it. This allows healthcare providers to talk with patients about what to expect in the future, including medications that help with symptoms and how to reduce the risk of transmitting herpes to their sexual partner(s).When it comes to testing for herpes, there are several reasons why it's only done if there are symptoms. Research shows that diagnosing herpes in a person with no symptoms does not change that person's sexual behavior or prevent herpes from spreading.
Additionally, there is a chance of getting a false positive with herpes tests, so it's best to avoid this as far as possible. Genital herpes is usually diagnosed through an exam by a medical professional and a blood test. If you suspect that you have genital herpes (which is mainly caused by HSV), you can get an antibody test. Providers usually only recommend testing for genital herpes to people who have symptoms or other risk factors. However, most people with a herpes infection never have any symptoms, but they can still transmit the virus to others. Your healthcare provider can take a tissue sample or culture of blisters or incipient ulcers, if you have them, and send them to a lab.
However, a negative test doesn't always mean you don't have herpes, especially if you have symptoms. If the result of a home test for an STI is positive, contact your healthcare provider or a public health clinic to confirm the test results. The types of STI tests you need may vary depending on your risk factors. Sexually transmitted diseases are common, but it's important to get tested for HPV for people with a cervix who are 30 years old or older, and even so, it is recommended to get tested for HPV every two years. It's also important to remember that the chance of getting a false-positive result on a herpes test is much greater than when testing for STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
