Three most common types of testing available at an STD Clinic when checking for genital herpes

There are typically two reasons a person decides to visit an STD Clinic for testing. One: they’ve noticed something strange popping up on a delicate part of their body, or Two: someone they’ve recently been sexually active with has informed them that they have noticed something strange on their body.

The type of test you receive depends on which of these apply to you. If one or both of these scenarios do apply to you, then you’re making the right decision by visiting a health center for genital herpes testing. Being tested for a sexually transmitted disease can be a distressing or emotional experience, but it’s key to prevent spreading disease. If you think you have something, get in to see a doctor immediately.

If it helps, here’s what to expect when you go in.

Your doctor will diagnose you based on your health history, your signs and symptoms, and the results from your test. All three of these components are important when distinguishing what you have from other STDs that all produce genital sores, such as syphilis. Or, it could just be genital acne. The real conclusion will come from your tests results.

There are three kinds of tests: the viral culture test, the blood test, and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.

Viral Culture Test
This test will be administered if you have fresh blisters or sores when you go in to see your doctor. By fresh we mean new and open. If your sores are healing, then this test will not be affective and a blood test will be needed. If you want to avoid a blood test, get in to see a doctor within 48 hours of your first symptoms.

Blood Test
If you have slept with someone whom you think or know has genital herpes, or if you’ve had a break out in the past that has mostly healed, a blood test will be administered. Take note that you have to wait a few weeks after initial infection before this test can detect antibodies in your blood. This test will also determine what type of herpes you have, as there are two kinds.

PCR Test
The polymerase chain reaction test involves taking a sample from the discharge from you genital and urinary tract. It’s much more effective and reliable than the culture test, but often is not administered due to its high cost.

If you don’t have insurance, testing for STDs can be expensive. Also, it becomes especially aggravating when the labs that processed your samples send you a bill two months later with additional fees. If you’ve even been tested for anything, you should be familiar with this headache.  

The STD clinic located at 274 Madison Avenue guarantees no hidden fees, plus reasonable prices for people without insurance! If you need Herpes type 2 testing in nyc or a general Std testing nyc, log on to their STD Center NY website to learn more about their lead doctor and their pricing. Or call the office at 212-696-5000 to talk to a member of their friendly staff.

If you’re feeling a little freaked out by the prospect of having genital herpes, know that it gets easier to manage the longer you’ve had it, especially with help from a great physician.