HSV 1 IgG (Select) Test
The virus behind most cold sores — and increasingly a cause of genital herpes too. This type-specific blood test tells you whether you've been exposed to HSV-1. 100% confidential, results usually in 1–2 business days.
HSV-1 is extremely common — most often the cause of oral cold sores, though it can also cause genital herpes. Many people carry it without ever knowing. This type-specific IgG blood test checks whether your body has developed antibodies to HSV-1. Herpes is manageable and nothing to be ashamed of, and nothing is billed to insurance.
Included Tests
What This Panel Measures
Who Should Get This Panel
- You want to know your HSV-1 status for peace of mind
- You've had cold sores and want confirmation
- A partner has HSV-1 and you want to know where you stand
- You're starting a new relationship and want a baseline
- You'd rather test privately, without it going through insurance
Conditions Screened
Related Symptoms
When to Get Tested
IgG antibodies to HSV-1 usually become detectable about 3–6 weeks after infection, but full seroconversion can take up to 12–16 weeks. If you test soon after a possible exposure and it's negative, retesting after about 12 weeks gives the most reliable answer.
Understanding Your Results
Results post to your secure online account, usually in 1–2 business days, in plain English — positive or negative for HSV-1 antibodies. A positive means past exposure to the virus; it doesn't indicate when you were infected or whether you'll have outbreaks. Herpes is a common, manageable condition. Nothing appears on your insurance record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this show up on my insurance?
Does a positive HSV-1 result mean I have genital herpes?
How soon after exposure can I test?
If I already get cold sores, why test?
Pairs Well With — Same Blood Draw
Test centers don’t accept payment — you pay securely here; the lab just does the draw.
What happens after you order?
- 1Your lab order form & test code appear in your secure online account — with your test center’s address.
- 2We send your lab requisition to the test center electronically.
- 3Walk in & get tested — tests usually take 5 minutes or less.