4 Best At-Home Herpes Tests for 2024

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At-home herpes tests are a convenient way to test for this common infection. Here, we examine the best herpes (HSV) test kits, from their price to their support and privacy measures. We also provide our editor’s hands-on review of the LetsGetChecked herpes test.
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Best overall: LetsGetChecked Herpes Test | Skip to review
LetsGetChecked Herpes Test
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Most convenient: myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test | Skip to review
myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test
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Best for quick results: STDcheck Herpes | Skip to review
STDcheck Herpes
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Best for early detection: PrioritySTD Herpes Test | Skip to review
PrioritySTD Herpes Test
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The best at-home herpes tests
Medical News Today Editor Lois Zoppi received a free herpes test kit from LetsGetChecked to review. All opinions are their own.

LetsGetChecked Herpes Test

Results in: 2 to 5 days
Collection method: finger prick
Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off
$119.00 AT LETSGETCHECKED
*Price may vary.

The LetsGetChecked home herpes blood tests can test for both HSV-1 and HSV-2. This test kit may be best for people who require regular testing, as the company’s subscription options offer significant discounts.

A person receives a collection kit with all the tools they need to collect their samples at home. This includes needles, a prepaid envelope, alcohol swabs, and a tube. The tests come in discreet packaging so that other people will not know what the person has received.

The person can also access an instruction video on the company website explaining how to take their test. LetsGetChecked suggests that people take a blood sample before 9 a.m. and return it to the laboratory on the same day.

The company states that it issues the results within 2 to 5 days.
Individuals who receive a positive result can contact a nurse through the company who may suggest a treatment plan.
LetsGetChecked offers a one-time purchase for $119. Anyone who requires regular testing can purchase a subscription and get discounts on its tests. For instance, a 3-month subscription will give a person a 30% discount on the cost of the kits.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.

“I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health.
“I haven’t used online health testing before, but I was really impressed by how simple the whole process was. Testing was easy and relatively pain-free, and my results came quickly.
“However, I would have liked more detail in my reports, and the cost of the tests is prohibitive for people on a tight budget.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor
                      
“I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health.
“I haven’t used online health testing before, but I was really impressed by how simple the whole process was. Testing was easy and relatively pain-free, and my results came quickly.
“However, I would have liked more detail in my reports, and the cost of the tests is prohibitive for people on a tight budget.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor
                      
tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2
significant discount with subscription
does not accept insurance
unsuitable for people on a tight budget
tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2
significant discount with subscription
does not accept insurance
unsuitable for people on a tight budget
Follow-up care: phone consultation with clinical team
Shipping: free shipping
Follow-up care: phone consultation with clinical team
Shipping: free shipping

myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test

Results in: 2 to 5 days
Collection method: finger prick
$89.00 AT MYLAB BOX
*Price may vary.
People can order at-home herpes tests from MyLAB Box. These kits contain instructions, a specimen bag, and a prepaid return envelope. Users may find this test convenient because of its quick turnaround for results and the option to book a free consultation and get treatment.
It is also one of the more affordable tests available online.
Once a person receives their collection kit, they can collect their sample using the instructions. They can then use the prepaid envelope to send it to the laboratory.
People should receive their results within 2 to 5 days. If the test is positive, they can book a free consultation with a doctor to discuss their results and treatment options. The doctor may then prescribe treatment.
This at-home test only works for people who wish to test for genital herpes. The company does not offer test kits for oral herpes.
The kit costs $89 as a stand-alone test, but the company also markets other kits that test for different infections. For example, if a person also wishes to test for other STIs, they can purchase the Total Box – 14 Panel option or the Uber Box – 8 Panel option.
Total Box – 14 Panel
Uber Box – 8 Panel
Read our in-depth review of myLAB Box.
in-depth review of myLAB Box
doctors may prescribe treatment if test results are positive
quick turnaround on results
only tests for HSV-2
no kit to test for oral herpes
doctors may prescribe treatment if test results are positive
quick turnaround on results
only tests for HSV-2
no kit to test for oral herpes
Follow-up care: physician consultation for positive results
Shipping: free shipping
Follow-up care: physician consultation for positive results
Shipping: free shipping

STDcheck Herpes

Results in: 1 to 2 days
Collection method: blood sample
$45.00 AT STDCHECK
*Price may vary.
STDCheck offers tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2. A person can order an HSV-2 test for $45. There is also an option to order a test package that tests for 10 different STIs.
This option is best for people who need their results quickly.
To order a test, a person must enter their zip code on the company website to find their nearest testing center. The company claims it has over 4,500 test centers nationwide, making them a convenient option for most people.
A person needs to attend their local test center for a blood test. They should then receive their online results within 1 to 2 days. Anyone who receives a positive result is eligible for a phone consultation with an STDCheck doctor. The doctor may prescribe treatments at their discretion.
rapid results
positive test includes free doctor consultation
requires a visit to a laboratory
rapid results
positive test includes free doctor consultation
requires a visit to a laboratory
Follow-up guidance: $95 physician consultation for positive results
Shipping: none (lab-based test)
Follow-up guidance: $95 physician consultation for positive results
Shipping: none (lab-based test)

PrioritySTD Herpes Test

Results in: 1 to 3 days
Collection method: urine and blood samples
$99.00 AT PRIORITYSTD
*Price may vary.
Priority STD offers two lab-based herpes detection tests: A standard herpes test, costing $99, and a herpes early detection test, costing $189. The latter can detect the presence of the herpes simplex virus as early as 10 days after exposure.
This may be suitable for people who would prefer to seek swift diagnosis and treatment for herpes.
To order either herpes test, a person must access the company website and enter their zip code to find their nearest testing center.
The company claims it has over 4,000 private test centers across the United States.
After ordering the herpes test, a person can walk into their local center to receive the testing. An appointment is not necessary.
The test procedure involves a simple blood test and urine sample, typically taking minutes. A person can expect to receive their online test results within 1 to 3 days.
In the event of a positive result, a person can have a phone consultation with a partner physician, who may prescribe treatment at an additional cost of $65.
offers tests for early detection of herpes
requires a visit to a laboratory
more expensive than other tests
offers tests for early detection of herpes
requires a visit to a laboratory
more expensive than other tests
Follow-up guidance: yes, if positive for certain STIs
Shipping: none (lab-based test)
Follow-up guidance: yes, if positive for certain STIs
Shipping: none (lab-based test)
Comparison of the best at-home herpes tests
The table below compares the six at-home herpes tests for cost, follow-up care, and more.
LetsGetChecked
MyLABBox
STDcheck
Priority STD
How we chose the best herpes test kits
MNT chooses at-home tests that meet the following criteria where possible:
Laboratories: Where possible, MNT will choose companies that process test samples in Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified labs. This means they follow state and federal regulations.
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified
Budget: MNT chooses at-home tests that suit a range of budgets.
Privacy: MNT includes companies that offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging.
Test type: MNT chooses tests that screen for a variety of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Sample type: MNT chooses tests that offer a range of samples, such as blood, saliva, or urine.
Test result speed: MNT selects companies that inform customers when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone.
Further support: MNT will indicate whether a company offers further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor to discuss test results.
What is herpes?
Herpes is an infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The virus spreads through contact with moist areas of the skin, such as the mouth and genitals.
herpes simplex virus (HSV)
The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes HSV into two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2.
World Health Organization (WHO)
HSV
HSV-2
HSV-1 causes oral herpes, which may develop after exposure to the virus in saliva or on skin surfaces. Some people develop the virus from nonsexual contact during childhood. Sometimes, HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes through oral sex.
genital herpes
HSV-2 causes genital herpes, an STI that affects more than 1 in 6 people ages 14–49 years in the United States.
STI
1 in 6
Learn more about what herpes looks like.
what herpes looks like
Reliability and choosing a home test
People considering buying a home test may seek advice from a pharmacist on which test is likely to be best for them. The pharmacist may also be able to show them how to collect the sample at home to prevent inaccuracies.
People who are looking for an at-home herpes test should consider the following before making a purchase:
Clear information: The company should offer all the information that a person needs for testing, including clear and complete instructions.
Consultations: Some companies offer remote consultations for people who wish to discuss their sexual health concerns, particularly if they receive a positive result. This might be helpful for those who cannot easily attend doctor’s appointments in person or who are uncomfortable talking with their current doctor about their sexual health. However, people should try to visit a doctor in person if they test positive.
Treatment plan: Online providers may suggest further testing or treatment depending on the individual’s results and concerns. People should always discuss these suggestions with a healthcare professional.
Certified laboratories: Some companies work with laboratories with CLIA certification. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that the CLIA regulations “establish quality standards for laboratory testing.” Medical News Today only features brands that use CLIA-certified labs to test samples.
CLIA
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
At-home vs. in-person herpes tests
At-home and in-person tests screen for the herpes simplex virus and will return either a positive, negative, or inconclusive result.
At-home tests require a person to collect the sample themselves. These samples may include urine, mouth or genital swabs, or a blood sample.
While at-home tests may be more convenient for those uncomfortable discussing their sexual history with others or those who cannot easily access healthcare, there are some risks. If a person does not collect the sample correctly, they may receive an inconclusive or incorrect test result.
Some at-home tests involve ordering a test online and visiting a lab so that a technician can collect the sample. This may be a good middle ground between true at-home tests and tests from a clinic for those who prefer not to discuss their sexual health with their doctor.
Samples taken by lab technicians and healthcare professionals are more likely to be valid. These professionals have had training and are more likely to take the sample correctly.
Another difference between at-home and in-person tests is that companies offering at-home testing may not offer follow-up advice. On the other hand, healthcare professionals from a clinic can provide people with resources, treatment, and prevention tips.
When to take a test
The CDC recommends herpes testing only for people who experience symptoms. Herpes can produce blisters on and around the genitals, mouth, or rectum. One reason for this is that false-positive results are possible.
CDC
Learn more about how long it takes for herpes symptoms to show.
how long it takes for herpes symptoms to show
People who have active herpes lesions can undergo a swab test. However, if the lesion is small or has started healing, there might not be enough virus for the test to detect. Due to this, there is also a risk of a false-negative result.
Healthcare professionals may be able to diagnose a person with herpes if they present with blisters and sores. Doctors may also swab sores or blisters that have not yet healed and send the samples to a lab for tests.
may be able
Anyone who thinks they might have had exposure to HSV and wants to take a test for reassurance, despite a lack of symptoms, will need to test for antibodies in the blood instead. White blood cells produce antibodies when bacteria, viruses, or other unwanted substances. A positive antibody test may not indicate that a person has a current herpes infection. It also cannot tell people when they got herpes, if they have it.
antibodies
According to the American Sexual Health Association, people should wait 12–16 weeks from the time of sexual contact before taking a test. The test checks whether or not the body has developed antibodies for HSV-1 or HSV-2, which may take some time to become detectable after exposure.
12–16 weeks
People who are sexually active or share needles with others may require regular testing.
Individuals with partners with herpes and who do not use barrier methods such as condoms each time they engage in sexual activity should also test for herpes regularly.
condoms
How do at-home herpes tests work?
Some people may prefer to order their at-home tests from online providers since this does not require them to leave their homes.
A 2020 study notes that at-home kits may also benefit those who may not access routine healthcare.
2020 study
There are two types of home tests: self-collection and laboratory-based.
After purchasing a test collection kit from an online provider, individuals receive all the tools they need to perform the test at home. They collect a sample by following the instructions in the kit and then return it to the company or its laboratory for analysis.
After purchasing the test from an online provider, the person receives a laboratory requisition form, which they present at a testing site. A healthcare professional takes the required sample, and the individual receives their result within a few days.
Interpreting results
At-home herpes testing may not be as accurate as in-person testing, but it may help you confirm if you have herpes. It’s a good option for a patient who is unable to see an in-person physician or is hesitant to seek care from an in-person physician.
– Stacy A. Henigsman, DO.
HSV-1 or HSV-2 test results may be negative or positive. These results depend on the type of test people take.
False results can occur with many diagnostic herpes tests. Herpes tests are not as exact as tests for other STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
False results
A research review on the diagnosis of HSV-1 and HSV-2 concludes that using blood tests to diagnose genital herpes may be inappropriate because positive results may be due to chronic infection, whereas negative results may overlook recent infection.
research review
According to the American Sexual Health Association, other viruses carried by the person in their blood may cross-react with the herpes virus, causing a false positive herpes result. These viruses include the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox or cytomegalovirus.
American Sexual Health Association
varicella-zoster virus
cytomegalovirus
Other factors that may determine the correct outcome of a herpes test result include sample preparation and the stage of infection of the sample.
include
Four types of tests can confirm the presence of the HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. These are:
This is also known as a viral DNA test or HSV DNA test. The healthcare practitioner examines the sore sample to look for the DNA of HSV-1 and HSV-2 to determine which virus is causing the person’s infection.
These tests are 99% accurate and represent the gold standard of testing by healthcare practitioners in advanced HIV infections.
99%
A healthcare practitioner collects a sample from the person’s skin sore and sends it to a laboratory to see if the virus grows. This type of test is useful early in an outbreak when the sore is open.
A positive result indicates that the person has an HSV infection. This may be an initial outbreak or a recurring one.
A negative result indicates that the test sample did not contain HSV. A negative result does not always mean that the person is free from the herpes virus. For example, a false negative may occur if the lesion is small or has started to heal.
A healthcare practitioner scrapes cells from the person’s sore to look for characteristics of herpes infection. A clinician examines the cells at the doctor’s office. There is no need to send the sample to a laboratory.
A positive result indicates the person has an infection. A negative result indicates that they do not have a herpes infection.
Herpes simplex antibody tests determine the presence of the HSV-1 or HSV-2 virus. A clinician detects these antibodies in the person’s blood or sore sample.
A positive result means that the person has HSV antibodies from a current infection or has had exposure, an outbreak, or infection. A negative result indicates that the person does not have the virus.
Pros and cons of at-home herpes tests
Before ordering a sample collection kit, people need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using at-home herpes tests. These include:
only require online consultations with a doctor or nurse
testing occurs at the same laboratories that the doctors use
results are usually available within a few days
confidentiality is guaranteed, with individuals receiving their tests in discreet packaging
collecting a blood sample at home may be difficult
there is a possibility of misinterpreting the test results
consultations with a doctor may only be available if the individual receives a positive result
there are few laboratory-based options
When to consult a doctor
Anyone who has sexual contact with someone who has received a herpes diagnosis should contact a doctor as soon as possible.
People who have received a positive test result may also wish to consider seeking medical advice.
Currently, herpes is not curable, but doctors can prescribe medications to reduce the frequency and severity of the symptoms. This may help lower the chance of the infection spreading to other individuals.
medications
Frequently asked questions about at-home herpes tests
Yes, it is possible to test for herpes at home. LetsGetChecked, STDCheck, and MyLAB Box all sell at-home herpes tests online. At-home herpes tests will require a blood sample, which people can collect by using a finger prick.
While at-home herpes tests are easy to complete and convenient to use, there is a risk of user error if someone is not used to taking them.
Yes, it is possible to test for herpes at home. LetsGetChecked, STDCheck, and MyLAB Box all sell at-home herpes tests online. At-home herpes tests will require a blood sample, which people can collect by using a finger prick.
While at-home herpes tests are easy to complete and convenient to use, there is a risk of user error if someone is not used to taking them.
Yes, there are instant herpes tests that can return results in as little as 15 minutes.
However, these tests cannot replace a doctor’s diagnosis, especially as the test taker is the only one who reviews the results.
Yes, there are instant herpes tests that can return results in as little as 15 minutes.
However, these tests cannot replace a doctor’s diagnosis, especially as the test taker is the only one who reviews the results.
At-home herpes home test kits are accurate so long as a person follows the test instructions. However, these tests may return an inaccurate or inconclusive result if someone does not take their sample correctly.
The CDC recommends that only people who have symptoms of herpes undergo testing. Possible symptoms include blisters around the anus, genitals, or mouth that burst and leave painful sores. The CDC also recommends testing if an individual experiences a possible herpes outbreak.
CDC
However, a person always needs to contact a doctor to help them interpret the results and receive further testing if necessary.
At-home herpes home test kits are accurate so long as a person follows the test instructions. However, these tests may return an inaccurate or inconclusive result if someone does not take their sample correctly.
The CDC recommends that only people who have symptoms of herpes undergo testing. Possible symptoms include blisters around the anus, genitals, or mouth that burst and leave painful sores. The CDC also recommends testing if an individual experiences a possible herpes outbreak.
CDC
However, a person always needs to contact a doctor to help them interpret the results and receive further testing if necessary.
Many people who have herpes will not have any symptoms or only mild symptoms that they may mistake for other conditions, such as ingrown hair.
not have any symptoms
If a person experiences symptoms, they are likely to notice:
one or more blisters around the genitals, rectum, or mouth
fever
body aches
swollen glands
Many people who have herpes will not have any symptoms or only mild symptoms that they may mistake for other conditions, such as ingrown hair.
not have any symptoms
If a person experiences symptoms, they are likely to notice:
one or more blisters around the genitals, rectum, or mouth
fever
body aches
swollen glands
Many people who have herpes do not have any symptoms at all. Additionally, if a person has herpes symptoms, they can still mistake them for something else. For example, herpes sores may look similar to pimples or ingrown hairs. Since herpes sores can resemble blisters, people can mistake them for skin condition symptoms, such as dermatitis.
pimples or ingrown hairs
Learn more about what herpes sores look like.
what herpes sores look like
Many people who have herpes do not have any symptoms at all. Additionally, if a person has herpes symptoms, they can still mistake them for something else. For example, herpes sores may look similar to pimples or ingrown hairs. Since herpes sores can resemble blisters, people can mistake them for skin condition symptoms, such as dermatitis.
pimples or ingrown hairs
Learn more about what herpes sores look like.
what herpes sores look like
A person can test for herpes even without symptoms. If the virus is present in the body and antibodies have been produced, a blood test will be able to detect it.
The incubation period for the herpes virus is 2 to 12 days, so the best time to take the test is after 12 days.
A person can test for herpes even without symptoms. If the virus is present in the body and antibodies have been produced, a blood test will be able to detect it.
The incubation period for the herpes virus is 2 to 12 days, so the best time to take the test is after 12 days.
Summary
At-home herpes tests may be the preferred option for people who feel uncomfortable discussing their sexual health with a doctor and those who cannot visit a healthcare facility.
Many companies sell at-home tests. Before purchasing a test, an individual may wish to compare the costs, how long it takes the companies to issue the results, and their instructions for collecting the sample.
Some people may have difficulty collecting samples at home and interpreting the test results. Some companies may only offer consultations to individuals who receive a positive test.
There are different types of herpes tests a person may wish to take. People should consider that any test has room for error, and those who receive a positive herpes test result should contact a doctor to discuss treatment options or a follow-up test.