Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Herpes test (HSV-1): IgG antibody blood test
This herpes test (HSV-1) is a blood antibody (IgG) test that can show whether you have had earlier contact with herpes simplex virus type 1, which is commonly oral but can also be genital. An IgG result reflects past exposure, not necessarily a current or recent infection. It cannot tell you where or when contact occurred.
What It Measures
This test measures IgG antibodies specific to herpes simplex virus type 1 in your blood. IgG antibodies develop after initial infection and remain present in the body for life, indicating current or past infection.
A positive result means you have been exposed to HSV-1 at some point. It does not indicate when the infection occurred or whether you are currently experiencing active symptoms. The test cannot determine the location of infection (oral or genital).
Why It Matters
HSV-1 is very common and often causes few or no symptoms, so an antibody test may simply tell you whether your body has encountered the virus before. This can give context or peace of mind, without being alarming. A doctor can help put the result in perspective for your situation.
When to Test
IgG antibodies (seroconversion) can take from a few weeks up to around 12 weeks to develop after exposure, so testing very soon after a possible contact may not yet show a reaction. Because of this window, timing affects what the result can show. A doctor can advise on the best moment to test and whether a repeat test is useful.
Recommendations
Male
Negative result indicates no HSV-1 exposure. Practice safe sexual practices.
Positive result indicates past HSV-1 exposure. Most people are asymptomatic. Consider antiviral medication if experiencing frequent outbreaks.
Female
Negative result indicates no HSV-1 exposure. Practice safe sexual practices.
Positive result indicates past HSV-1 exposure. Most people are asymptomatic. Consider antiviral medication if experiencing frequent outbreaks.
Lifestyle Tips
Avoid kissing or oral sexual contact during active cold sore outbreaks to reduce transmission risk. Use sunscreen on the lips and manage stress, as these are common triggers for outbreaks. Antiviral medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences.
Open communication with sexual partners about herpes status helps make informed decisions together. Remember that HSV-1 is extremely common and carrying the virus is not a reflection of personal hygiene or behaviour.