While there is no cure for herpes, medicines are available to manage the disease and prevent an outbreak. If you are showing symptoms and have reason to believe you may have herpes, it is best to get tested immediately. Once an individual is diagnosed, they can get treatment for the condition to ensure it stays under control. Test Smartly will provide the right test for your needs.
Herpes Simplex Virus
Herpes is one of the most common STDs in the United States. 1 out of every 6 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-49) have genital herpes, and as many as 90% of those individuals do not know they have it.
Herpes is an STD that’s caused by the herpes simplex virus:
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1): (most often causes oral herpes)
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2): (most often causes genital herpes)
About Oral Herpes
Oral herpes is common and it most often shows up as cold sores around the mouth. Most people get the virus as children by exchanging saliva (through non-sexual contact). Though oral herpes is not considered an STD, they may transfer the virus to their partner and it could become oral or genital herpes depending on the sexual act.
About Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is considered an STD. This is spread by having any form of sex with someone else who has herpes. During a herpes outbreak, blisters may form:
Males may spot blisters around the penis, testicles or anus
Females may spot blisters around the vagina or anus
Blisters may itch, burn, and ooze. It’s best to see a doctor to get treated for herpes.
Test Smartly Labs can help if you need to test for herpes or any other STD.
STI stands for “Sexually Transmitted Infection” and STD stands for “Sexually Transmitted Disease”. These two terms sound similar and the difference between them can be confusing. One of the reasons for this is that up to a certain point these two terms were synonymous and were used interchangeably. But now there is a technical difference between these terms which has been acknowledged by the medical community and can no longer be used synonymously.
Privacy Matters for STI/STD Testing at Test Smartly Labs
While all health-related matters deserve the utmost privacy and confidentiality, some types of blood tests and lab work need even more. When it comes to STI or STD testing, you do not want to have any small chance of anyone you know finding out about your risks or diagnoses. Of course, if you go to your doctor’s office or even a public clinic, the HIPAA rules require everyone involved to keep your information private and secure. However, you may still have some doubts troubling your mind.
There are no routine screenings recommended for herpes, however you can ask a doctor to examine you or run blood tests if:
You want peace of mind
You’ve had sex with someone who has herpes
You’re seeing blisters and want to know if you carry the herpes virus
As a verified collection site, Test Smartly Labs meets the specifications required for us to collect for this test, as well as the security requirements.
What We Need
Be prepared for your lab test!
Make sure you have been Fasting for at least 10-12 hours for many blood tests
Make sure you are Hydrated for blood draw
Complete TSL Intake Form & HIPAA Disclosure
Pay for your lab test upfront (We don't process insurance claims but can provide you with information to submit your own insurance claim)
If you are having specialized testing, call ahead to help us determine if there are special collection preparations.
If you are interested in one of our health panels, please feel free to look at our web listing to help identify which one you want performed.
Please try to arrive 30 minutes prior to business closing to allow us time to process your samples for shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Your Hours?
All Test Smartly Labs are open Monday through Friday, from 9am - 5pm
The Overland Park Testing Center is also open from 9am – 1pm on Saturdays
Do We Need To Have An Appointment?
No appointment is required to come into our labs, and all of our locations are on a walk-in basis. However, it is recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to closing. If your situation requires special time considerations, please call us to determine if it would be better to arrange an appointment time.
Do I Need Doctors’ Orders For Testing?
No doctors’ orders needed, we are a Direct-Access Testing Center. You are encouraged to consult your medical professional with your lab test results.
What’s The Turnaround Time For Lab Work?
Average turnaround time is 2-5 business days depending on the complexity of the lab work. Most tests are available in 2-3 days.
Do You Need A List Of My Medications For A Drug Test?
Per protocol, the lab techs are not allowed to receive or ask for your medications. A medical review officer or MRO, a licensed physician who specializes in toxicology, will call you and ask for your medications and your physician’s phone number if it’s detected in your sample during testing. The MRO will then call your physician to verify your medications.
