Genital Herpes Home Test

What is genital herpes and how common is it?

Genital herpes is an STD caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), of which there are two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both can cause blisters around the genitals, anus or mouth. HSV-1 is mainly associated with a cold sore (herpes labialis) on the mouth, which is not an STD, but the virus can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital transmission. The virus remains in the body for life. In 2019, approximately 28,840 people were diagnosed with genital herpes.

What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a common virus that causes blisters on the genitals or mouth and is spread through skin-to-skin contact. The virus remains in the body for life and can be symptom-free. During the first infection, symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, headache, pain when urinating and blisters around the genitals, anus or mouth may occur. Symptoms often differ between men and women.

Common symptoms in women:

• Blisters in or around the vagina, anus or mouth.
• Fever and a general feeling of being unwell.
• A burning sensation when urinating.
• Vaginal discharge.
• Swollen lymph nodes, such as in the groin.

Common symptoms in men:

• Blisters on or around the penis, anus or mouth.
• Fever and a general feeling of being unwell.
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating.
• Swollen lymph nodes, such as in the groin.

What are the consequences of genital herpes?

Genital herpes rarely causes serious complications, but it can be more serious in people with a weakened immune system or skin conditions. Pregnant women can transmit the virus during childbirth, which can lead to neonatal herpes in babies, causing damage to the skin, eyes, nervous system and organs.

The Easly Herpes Genitalis test was developed to detect Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) using the accurate and reliable PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) method.

Important characteristics of the test:

1. Detects active infections: The test focuses on detecting active herpes infections. Although it does not distinguish between past and current infections, it accurately identifies the presence of the virus during an outbreak.
2. Advanced PCR technology: The PCR method amplifies the genetic material of the virus, enabling highly accurate detection even with small sample sizes. This guarantees reliable results for correct diagnosis and treatment.
3. Swab-based sampling: Samples are collected with a cotton swab from active blisters, which ensures a simple and non-invasive procedure.

How and when do you test for genital herpes?

A Herpes PCR test is only suitable when blisters are present. The Easly PCR test can detect the herpes simplex virus in the tested material, but not immediately after infection. The incubation period, the period between infection and the moment when the virus is detectable, is between 2 and 12 days, averaging 4 days. Below you will find more information about the best time to get tested.