General
Herpes Simplex Antibody Test (IgG)
Lab test

Herpes Simplex Antibody Test (IgG)

Ordered for people who want to know their HSV status, have had a possible exposure, or are entering a new relationship and want clarity before disclosure conversations. Detects prior infection even without a history of symptoms. No fasting required. Results reviewed by a General Medicine clinician.

Receive actionable insights and deep analysis—not just lab values– in as little as 48 hours

Clear guidance, and follow-up care available

Simple, online scheduling for labs and everything else

Most insurance accepted

Board-certified

No hidden fees

Available nationwide

What is a Herpes Simplex Antibody Test (IgG)?

The Herpes Simplex IgG Antibody Test detects whether your immune system has developed antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2 — indicating prior or current infection. It's a blood test, not a swab, meaning it can identify herpes exposure even when no symptoms are present, making it one of the most useful tools for understanding your HSV status.

HSV-1 detection

Measures IgG antibodies specific to HSV type 1 — most commonly associated with oral herpes (cold sores), though increasingly a cause of genital herpes through oral-genital transmission.

HSV-2 detection

Measures IgG antibodies specific to HSV type 2 — the strain most commonly associated with genital herpes. A positive result confirms prior exposure, even in people who have never had a recognized outbreak.

Asymptomatic screening

Because both HSV types frequently cause no recognizable symptoms, IgG antibody testing is the only way to determine status without an active sore to swab — important for anyone who wants clarity before a new relationship or after a potential exposure.

Complete insights in as little as 48 hours

1

Book your test

Instantly schedule at 2,000+ labs nationwide, at a time that works for you. Most visits take 15 minutes or less, with both walk-ins and appointments available.

2

Get results in 48 hours

Your results are delivered quickly—and reviewed by medical professionals. You’ll get clear explanations, robust health insights, and recommended next steps tailored to your health needs.

3

Take action with physician guidance

Choose to review your results and manage your plan with a General Medicine physician—or simply use the insights on your own.

4

Track progress over time

Repeat annually to see trends, improvements, and new emerging risks or book individual tests that focus on your set goals

All your care in one place. That’s the General Medicine difference.

We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.

Your care plan
Clinician

What's included

Test type

Blood sample

Collection method

Venipuncture

Fasting

Not required

Results processing time

1 to 2 days

HSV-1 IgG

Detects antibodies specific to HSV type 1, often associated with oral cold sores.

HSV-2 IgG

Measures antibodies to HSV type 2, which typically involves genital infections.

Virtual visit with clinician

Ongoing support, always available.

You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians who care for a wide range of health needs, from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.

Our clinicians track your progress over time and adjust your care as needed. If medication is prescribed, we’ll manage dosing and monitor for side effects. If lab testing is recommended, we review results and refine your plan accordingly. You’re never left to navigate care on your own.

What our customers have to say

Hear from people who felt heard, understood, and supported on General Medicine.

“I found the ease of setting the appointment and how quickly I was able to be seen to be amazing. The physician was very friendly and amazingly helpful.”

Natalie, Texas

“The chat visit was super convenient. The doctor was friendly and took the time needed to answer any questions I had. The prescription I needed was called in and ready the same afternoon.”

Dustin, Tennessee

“I loved my General Medicine experience. It gave me peace of mind to know someone cared and I felt they listened to what I was saying.”

Ann, Florida

“General Medicine is easily the most approachable, efficient, high-quality, and responsive care team I've had the pleasure of working with.”

John, Utah

“General Medicine helped me get the imaging and blood work I needed, referred me to the right specialists, and even helped me find a new family doctor.”

Bridget, Mississippi

Order your lab today.

Frequently asked questions

What does the IgG herpes test detect?

The IgG antibody test detects whether your immune system has developed antibodies to HSV-1 (oral herpes) or HSV-2 (genital herpes), indicating a prior or current infection. It's a blood test — not a swab — and can detect infection even when no symptoms are present.

How accurate is the IgG herpes test?

The HSV-2 IgG test has high specificity but some false positive risk, particularly at low positive values. HSV-1 IgG is widely positive in the population due to childhood oral herpes exposure. Borderline or unexpected results should always be discussed with a clinician for proper interpretation.

How long after exposure should I wait to test?

IgG antibodies typically take 12–16 weeks to reach detectable levels after initial infection. Testing too early may produce a false negative. If a recent exposure is suspected, a follow-up test at 12–16 weeks provides a more reliable result.

What's the difference between the IgG test and a swab test?

A swab test (PCR) detects the virus directly from an active sore and is the most accurate test for confirming an active outbreak. The IgG blood test detects prior infection — even without current symptoms — making it useful for screening when there is no active lesion to swab.

If I test positive, does that mean I'll definitely have outbreaks?

Not necessarily. Many people with HSV antibodies have never had a recognizable outbreak and may not in the future. A positive result confirms prior exposure, not disease severity. A clinician can explain what a positive result means for your specific situation and options for management.
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