Herpes Blood Test UK | HSV 1 & 2 Antibody Test
Herpes Blood Test UK – HSV 1 & 2 Antibody Test
The Herpes Blood Test UK is a private clinic-based blood test that checks for antibodies linked to Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2.
This HSV 1 and 2 antibody test may be suitable if you are concerned about possible herpes exposure, have had mild or no symptoms, or want doctor-reviewed results to help understand your HSV antibody status.
Sample type: Blood
Collection method: In-clinic blood sample
Turnaround time: 3 working days*
Doctor-reviewed results: Yes
Optional GP discussion: Yes
Preparation required: No
What This Herpes Blood Test Includes
Blood Test
This checks for IgG antibodies linked to HSV-1. HSV-1 is commonly associated with oral herpes, but it can also affect the genital area.
This checks for IgG antibodies linked to HSV-2. HSV-2 is commonly associated with genital herpes. IgG antibodies can take several weeks to become detectable after exposure.
IgM antibodies may appear earlier after HSV exposure, but results can sometimes be difficult to interpret because IgM may also be detected during reactivation.
Why Choose This HSV Blood Test?
Private & Confidential Herpes Testing
Your appointment, blood sample and results are handled discreetly, with secure reporting and confidential clinical review.
Checks for HSV 1 & HSV 2 Antibodies
This herpes antibody test may help identify immune markers linked to HSV-1 and HSV-2 exposure, depending on the antibodies detected and the timing of your test.
Suitable If You Have No Symptoms
Many people with HSV have mild symptoms or no noticeable symptoms. A blood test for herpes may provide useful information after possible exposure or a partner diagnosis.
Doctor-Reviewed Results
Your laboratory results are reviewed by a clinician, with an optional GP discussion available if you would like further guidance.
Who May Consider This Test?
- People looking for a private herpes blood test in the UK
- Individuals concerned about possible HSV-1 or HSV-2 exposure
- People whose partner has tested positive for herpes
- Individuals with previous unexplained oral or genital symptoms
- People who want doctor-reviewed HSV antibody results
- Individuals searching for confidential herpes testing near them
When Should I Test?
Antibodies can take time to develop after HSV exposure, so the timing of your herpes blood test is important.
- HSV IgM antibodies: may appear within the first few weeks, but interpretation can be limited
- HSV IgG antibodies: usually develop over the first weeks after infection
- Later testing: IgG antibodies may take up to 12–16 weeks, and occasionally longer, to become detectable
If testing is performed too soon after possible exposure, repeat testing may sometimes be advised for additional reassurance.
Please note: This is a blood antibody test for HSV-1 and HSV-2. A positive antibody result does not always confirm when exposure occurred, whether symptoms will develop, or whether current symptoms are caused by HSV.
If you currently have active sores, blisters, ulcers or lesions, a swab PCR test from the affected area may be more appropriate for assessing a current outbreak. Medical advice is recommended if you are concerned about symptoms or recent exposure.
Preparation Required
- No fasting required
- No special preparation required
- Please follow any clinic instructions provided at the time of booking
Results & Follow-Up
- Secure online results
- Doctor-reviewed laboratory report
- Clear reporting of HSV antibody markers detected
- Optional GP discussion available
- Guidance on next steps where appropriate
*Turnaround times are indicative and may occasionally vary depending on laboratory processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions
A herpes blood test checks for antibodies linked to herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2. It may help identify whether your immune system has produced markers associated with HSV exposure.
Herpes may show up in a blood test if HSV antibodies are present. However, antibody results need to be interpreted carefully because they do not always show when exposure happened or whether current symptoms are caused by herpes.
A blood test can help identify antibodies linked to HSV-1 or HSV-2 exposure. If you have active sores, blisters or ulcers, a swab PCR test may be more suitable for assessing a current outbreak.
HSV IgM antibodies may appear earlier after exposure but can be difficult to interpret. HSV IgG antibodies usually develop later and often remain detectable long term.
IgM may appear within the first few weeks, while IgG may take up to 12–16 weeks, and occasionally longer, to become detectable. Testing too early may sometimes require repeat testing.
Herpes blood test accuracy can depend on the type of antibody tested, the timing of the test and your clinical history. Testing too soon after exposure may sometimes produce a result that requires follow-up or repeat testing.
Yes. Your appointment, blood sample and results are handled securely and confidentially.
All laboratories need information regarding the client to uniquely identify their test sample.
Without these details, tests cannot be processed.
The minimum requirement is the full name, gender and date of birth.
You can enter these details securely at the top before you click 'Add to cart'.
1. Purchase test online with full name, gender and date of birth.
2. You will initially receive a general confirmation email. This will be followed by an email from our laboratory partner, Randox Health, asking you to book an appointment for your test at the location and time of your choice.
3. You will recieve a text message notification when your results are ready. They will be sent to you discreetly by email.
4. In the event of a positive test result, we provide STI treatment if needed.
Treatment for positive tests for some bacterial infections is available by payment of a £49 prescription fee.
A prescription token is then sent to you by email and SMS. You can take this to any pharmacy and have your medication dispensed. Alternatively, you can have the medication delivered to you. Typical pharmacy costs for one antibiotic is approximately £10-15 but can be more for certain antibiotics.
Herpes Blood Test UK | HSV 1 & 2 Antibody Test