HSV-2 Testing Window – When to Test for Genital Herpes

If you think you’ve been exposed to HSV-2, it’s important to understand when testing will give you the most accurate results. Herpes doesn’t always show up on a test immediately after exposure. Like many STDs, HSV-2 has a “testing window”—the period between infection and when a test can reliably detect it.

This page explains how long you should wait after potential exposure, what kinds of herpes tests are available, and how to interpret your results based on timing and symptoms.

What Is the HSV-2 Testing Window?

The testing window is the time between infection and when a test can accurately detect HSV-2. There are two main types of tests used to diagnose genital herpes:

• Swab test: Detects the herpes virus itself from an active sore. Only accurate if you currently have symptoms.
• Blood test (IgG antibody): Detects your body’s immune response to HSV-2. Antibodies take 2 to 12 weeks to appear.

If you test too soon after exposure, the result may be negative—even if you’ve been infected—because your body hasn’t produced enough antibodies yet. This is known as a false negative and is most likely during the first few weeks post-exposure.

When Should You Get Tested?

If you’ve had recent sexual contact with someone who has HSV-2 or think you were exposed, the best time to take a blood test is around 6 to 12 weeks after the encounter. Testing before the 3-week mark is generally not recommended unless you have active symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms—such as genital sores, burning, itching, or painful urination—you should seek medical care immediately. A swab test taken within 48 hours of sore appearance can confirm an active HSV-2 infection.

How Accurate Are HSV-2 Tests?

Accuracy depends on timing, test type, and whether you’re currently symptomatic:

• Swab tests: Highly accurate when taken early in an outbreak. Less reliable after sores begin healing.
• IgG blood tests: Accurate after the testing window, but early testing may result in false negatives. They also can’t determine when you were infected—only that you were at some point.

Most at-home test kits and private labs use IgG testing for type-specific herpes results. Make sure your test distinguishes between HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Why the Window Period Matters

Getting tested too early can give you false peace of mind and lead to unintentionally transmitting the virus. HSV-2 is often spread by people who don’t know they have it, especially during asymptomatic shedding. Waiting until antibodies have developed gives you the most reliable result.

If you receive a negative result within 2–3 weeks of exposure but still have concerns, retesting at the 12-week mark is recommended.

Symptoms to Watch For

If you develop symptoms within days or weeks of exposure, don’t wait for the full antibody window. These signs may indicate an initial outbreak:

• Clusters of blisters or open sores in the genital or anal area
• Burning, itching, or tingling before sores appear
• Pain while urinating
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever or swollen lymph nodes

In this case, your provider can perform a swab test and discuss treatment options right away. Early treatment may shorten the outbreak and reduce discomfort.

Where to Get Tested for HSV-2

You can get tested at a doctor’s office, local clinic, or using a private service. Many people prefer discreet options that allow for home testing or direct lab scheduling without needing an in-person appointment.

Two trusted options include:

• STDCheck – Type-specific HSV-2 testing at certified labs
• myLAB Box – At-home herpes test kits with easy-to-read results

FAQs About HSV-2 Testing Timing

How soon can HSV-2 be detected?

A swab test may detect the virus during symptoms, but blood tests usually become accurate around 6–12 weeks after exposure.

Can I get a false negative result?

Yes. Testing too early may result in a false negative. If you test negative but were exposed recently, consider retesting at 12 weeks.

Can a test tell me when I was infected?

No. IgG blood tests only detect whether antibodies are present. They can’t determine how long you’ve had the virus.

Sources

• CDC – Herpes Screening FAQ
• Mayo Clinic – Herpes Testing
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Genital Herpes: Diagnosis