If you’re worried you may have been exposed to herpes, it’s natural to want answers right away. But getting tested too early can sometimes lead to inaccurate results. Understanding the herpes “testing window” — the amount of time between exposure and when the virus can be reliably detected — is one of the most important parts of the process.
This page explains how long to wait after potential exposure, how testing accuracy changes over time, and when to consider retesting. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or not, timing can affect the outcome of your test.
What Is a Testing Window?
The testing window refers to the amount of time it takes for your body to produce detectable antibodies after being exposed to the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Most herpes blood tests — including those used by STDCheck and myLAB Box — look for these antibodies, not the virus itself.
If you test too soon, your body may not have had time to build up enough antibodies, which can result in a false-negative result even if you’re infected.
How Long After Exposure Should You Wait?
According to most clinical guidance, herpes antibodies usually become detectable in the blood:
- Within 2–3 weeks for some people
- By 4–6 weeks for the majority
- Up to 12 weeks for full accuracy in most cases
To maximize the chances of an accurate result, it’s often recommended to wait at least 6 weeks after possible exposure before testing — and ideally 12 weeks if you want the most definitive answer.
Most healthcare professionals consider the 12-week mark the gold standard for herpes blood testing. While many people will have detectable antibodies by 4 to 6 weeks, waiting the full window gives you the clearest possible answer. If you’re testing for peace of mind or planning to share results with a partner, that extra time can make a meaningful difference.
What If You Have Symptoms?
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as blisters, sores, itching, or flu-like signs shortly after exposure, it may still be worth testing sooner. In these cases, a positive result is usually reliable. If the result is negative but symptoms persist, you may be advised to retest later.
Some people never experience symptoms at all — or don’t notice them — which is why timing and awareness are so important. Learn more on our asymptomatic herpes page.
Can You Test Too Early?
Yes. Testing within the first week or two after exposure is unlikely to give you a reliable result. Your body needs time to mount an immune response, and most IgG blood tests — the kind used in type-specific herpes testing — will not detect the virus that early.
Waiting can be difficult—especially when you’re feeling anxious or uncertain. But early testing can create more confusion than clarity. Testing too soon may lead to false reassurance or unnecessary panic. Giving your body time to respond is the best way to ensure your results reflect the reality of your health status.
What If Your First Test Is Negative?
If you test negative within the first month of exposure, there’s still a chance the result is a false negative. Many providers — including STDCheck — offer individual herpes testing so you can follow up without retaking a full STD panel. Retesting at the 12-week mark is a smart move if your risk was high or you’re still uncertain.
Should You Test Again Later?
If your first test was done within the early weeks after exposure, retesting later is often a smart move. Even if your initial result is negative, a follow-up test around 12 weeks can confirm your status with more confidence. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to start a new relationship, had a known exposure, or are managing symptoms that don’t quite add up.
Both STDCheck and myLAB Box make it easy to order individual herpes tests again—no need to retake a full STD panel unless you want to.
Where to Get Tested When the Time Is Right
When you’re ready, both of the following testing providers offer type-specific herpes tests with fast, private results:
- STDCheck – Offers HSV-1, HSV-2, or both through a lab blood draw. Results in 1–2 business days.
- myLAB Box – Offers an at-home HSV-2 test. Collect your sample at home and get results in 2–5 days.
Once the testing window has passed, getting tested is one of the best steps you can take for clarity, peace of mind, and your health moving forward.
Order a Herpes Test
When the testing window is right, get fast, accurate results from one of our trusted partners.
Disclosure: HerpesTesting.net may earn a commission if you make a purchase through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.