If you weren't aware, herpes is not typically included in a standard STD panel. This means that all the screening tests you've done since you started having sex, and those you may have asked your partner to do, probably didn't include herpes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend testing for herpes in people without symptoms in most cases. This is due to the limitations of a blood test for herpes and the potential for getting an inaccurate result. The chances of getting an incorrect test result are higher for people who have a low risk of infection.
For herpes, according to CDC guidelines, testing is only done if there are symptoms and there are several reasons for this distinction. Firstly, research shows that diagnosing herpes in someone without symptoms does not change their sexual behavior or stop herpes from spreading. Secondly, there is a chance of getting a false positive with herpes tests. Since herpes is incurable and lasts a lifetime (with no evidence to suggest it can be sexually transmitted), it's best to avoid false positives as much as possible with herpes testing. Genital herpes is usually diagnosed through an examination by a medical professional and a blood test.
If you suspect you have genital herpes (which is mainly caused by HSV), you can get an antibody test. Blood tests may be used when someone has no visible symptoms but is worried they have herpes. Blood tests don't actually detect the virus, but instead look for antibodies (the body's immune response) in the blood.
