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An at-home herpes test is a convenient and quick way to test for herpes, and our tester found it a good option for saving time at doctor’s appointments and waiting for results. Learn about the five best at-home herpes tests here.

Yes, you can test for herpes at home. Companies that we’ll look into later, such as LetsGetChecked, MyLAB Box, and Everlywell make it super easy to test for herpes in greater privacy than the doctor’s office.

At-home herpes tests let you screen for herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) quickly, safely, and privately. These tests are considered as reliable as what you’d get through a doctor’s office.

All the tests featured on our list pass Healthline’s robust medical vetting and earn positive reviews from users. Plus, our contributor shares her experience using the at-home test from LetsGetChecked.

Want to find out more about LetsGetChecked and the other tests that they offer?

Read our in-depth review of LetsGetChecked here: LetsGetChecked: 2024 Review

Want to learn more about the other tests available through MyLAB Box?

Read our full review of MyLAB Box here: myLAB Box Review: Should You Try It?

Every product we recommend undergoes Healthline’s stringent vetting process. In addition, when researching at-home herpes tests, we looked for options with fast and accurate results and excellent customer feedback to compile our list of best buys. Here’s what we considered:

  • Popularity: We included tests purchased by hundreds, if not thousands, of customers.
  • Reviews: All products have an excellent average customer rating from people who are happy with their experience.
  • Privacy protocols: Medical information must be private and compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), so all the companies we considered have strict policies in place.
  • Results: We included services that offer fast, digital results within 5 business days or less that people can access easily through a digital platform.
  • Accuracy: We only considered products with a high accuracy rate.
  • Value: We looked for services that provide the best bang for your buck.
  • Company reputation and transparency: We only included products from trusted brands that our team has vetted. Note that while none of the test below were involved, LetsGetChecked’s Lyme disease test was involved in a class action lawsuit over inaccuracy, as well as Everlywell’s food sensitivity test. We recommend pairing at-home testing with help from healthcare professional.
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Price
Tests for
Collection
Results
LetsGetChecked Herpes Test
• $119
• $83/mo subscription
HSV-1 and HSV-2
finger prick
2 to 5 days
STD Check
• $45 single
• $79 HSV-1
and HSV-2
HSV-1 and HSV-2
blood draw
1 to 2 days
myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test
$89
HSV-2
finger prick
2 to 5 days
Priority STD
$99
HSV-1 and HSV-2
blood draw
1 to 3 days

Worldwide, more than half of people under 50 years old have herpes. If you’ve been exposed to herpes or have been sexually active with a partner who has a history of herpes, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional about whether you should be tested.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that only people with herpes symptoms test for it because of the high possibility of inaccurate test results: Those with a low risk of infection have a higher chance of getting the wrong results.

If you’re considering getting tested for herpes, you may wonder how to choose between the various options. Here are some things to consider:

  • Types of tests: Herpes tests are available as single tests for HSV-1 or HSV-2, a combination test for both, or as part of a comprehensive STI panel that covers a range of infections.
  • Results: Some services offer results in as little as 1 day, while others may take up to 5 days.
  • Accuracy: All the tests on our list boast high accuracy rates. Opt for a company that uses CLIA accredited labs, so you know you’re getting accurate results. Don’t settle for anything less.
  • Privacy and confidentiality: Choose a brand that complies with strict policies to ensure your privacy and confidentiality.
  • Consultations: Wherever possible, opt for a company that provides follow-up care. Should you test positive, it’s helpful to have access to a professional who can advise you on treatment options.
  • Pricing: Tests can range in price from $45 for a single test to more than $100 for a comprehensive panel. Consider what tests you need and whether you want to bundle them together to get the best value. If you are interested in free or lower cost herpes tests, there are resources available.

If you take a herpes at-home test and receive a positive result, you can share your results with a healthcare professional to provide better insight into your next steps.

Also talk with a healthcare professional if you notice any sores on or around your genitals. Other STIs, like syphilis, can look like herpes but need different treatments. Treatment is needed to prevent complications and transmission.

A doctor will let you know whether to get tested for herpes or another STI. They can order a few different tests, including a virus antigen detection test and antibody test. They can also help you get treatment if your test results are positive.

Learn more about online treatment options for STIs, including herpes.

You can test for herpes at home with three of the tests on our list: LetsGetChecked Herpes Test, Everlywell STD Test – Female, and myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test.

Any of these tests could be a good choice if you’re comfortable taking your own blood sample. It can take up to 5 days to get your results online.

If you have symptoms, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is the most accurate test for herpes, accoring to the American Sexual Health Association. It looks for genetic material in a sample (such as a genital swab) that indicates a viral infection.

If you do not have symptoms, a blood test that looks for IgG antibodies is the most accurate option. These tests can detect whether you have HSV-1 or HSV-2, unlike IgM tests.

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is a type of swab test that can detect viral infections like herpes. A PCR test looks for genetic material showing that the herpes virus is present in a person’s sample, such as a swab sample taken from genital or oral herpes sores. However, it is most accurate when a person has a PCR test within 48 hours of developing sores.

LetsGetChecked, MyLAB Box, Priority STD, and STD Check all sell at-home herpes tests for between $45 and $170.

The best at-home herpes tests are easy to use, offer quick results, and use accurate testing processes. Our tester found the herpes test from LetsGetChecked simple and convenient but didn’t think it would be a great fit for people who do not like the sight of blood.

Getting tested can help prevent oral herpes from spreading to the genital area. It can also protect your sexual partners from contracting the virus. With quick and discreet at-home herpes testing, you can help keep yourself and others safe.