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Herpes Test Singapore

oral and genital area

What is Herpes?

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common viral infection with two main types: HSV-1, typically causing oral herpes, and HSV-2, often associated with genital herpes. In Singapore, the prevalence of HSV necessitates accessible and reliable testing services to aid individuals in managing their health. HSV testing is crucial for early detection, effective management, and preventing transmission.

Confidentiality and privacy are prioritised in all testing services to ensure individuals feel comfortable and secure when seeking help.

What is the Herpes test?

A Herpes test is a medical procedure that detects the presence of the Herpes Simplex Virus in an individual’s body. The test can be performed through a variety of methods, including blood tests, swab tests, and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests. These tests aim to identify the antibodies or genetic material of the virus in order to diagnose an active or previous infection.

Importance of HSV Testing

Early detection of HSV plays a pivotal role in managing symptoms and preventing the spread of the virus to others. Knowing one’s HSV status allows individuals to take informed steps to protect their health and that of their partners. Untreated HSV can lead to recurrent outbreaks and, in some cases, complications such as neonatal herpes in newborns. Hence, testing is not only beneficial for personal health but also for public health.

What are the types of Herpes Simplex Virus

There are two main types of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV):

HSV 1

HSV-1 is commonly associated with oral herpes, which causes cold sores or blisters around the mouth and lips. It can also cause genital herpes if transmitted through oral sex.

HSV 2

HSV-2 is primarily responsible for genital herpes, which causes painful blisters or ulcers in the genital area. However, it can also cause oral herpes through direct contact with infected genitals during oral sex.

Who should get tested?

Anyone with symptoms (listed below) should get tested but even those without symptoms who believe they are at risk should consider getting tested. HSV can pass on through skin contact from an infected area so protection is not as effective for prevention.

What are the causes of Herpes?

Herpes is primarily spread through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids. The virus is transmitted through activities such as kissing, sexual intercourse, oral-genital contact, and even the sharing of personal items like razors or towels. 

HSV-1, commonly transmitted through oral contact, and HSV-2, mainly spread through sexual contact, are the two types of herpes viruses.

What are the symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus?

The symptoms of HSV may vary depending on the type of infection.

For oral herpes (HSV-1), individuals may experience cold sores or blisters around the mouth and lips. These can be painful and accompanied by fever, sore throat, and swollen glands.

Genital herpes (HSV-2) may cause blisters or ulcers on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs. These can also be accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. However, many people infected with HSV do not show any symptoms at all.

Types of HSV Tests Available

  • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test: This test detects HSV DNA with high accuracy, making it ideal for confirming an active infection. It is often used when symptoms are present, providing reliable results that help guide treatment decisions.
  • Blood Tests for Antibodies: These tests, including IgG and IgM antibody tests, determine if an individual has been exposed to the virus. They can identify both past and recent infections, although they may not pinpoint the site of infection (oral or genital).
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How do we test for Herpes?

If symptoms are present then we can perform a swab test of that area. This test is very accurate and can differentiate between type 1 and type 2. We cannot perform a swab test when no symptoms are present.

If no symptoms are present or you just wish to know if you are a carrier then a blood test for antibodies can be performed. However, this test should only be performed a minimum of 3 months after possible infection.

What are the treatment options?

Unfortunately there is no cure for HSV. Once you have been infected it will usually remain with you for life. However, if no symptoms are present then it is dormant and you do not need specific treatment meaning you may lead your life as normal.

If symptoms are present we can use cream, tablets or a combination of both to help alleviate the current flare. For mild cases of HSV 1 we may just use antiviral cream but in more severe cases or if genital herpes is present then we may use oral antiviral medication as this produces a prompter response.

What happens if it is left untreated?

Thankfully herpes is not a serious condition, although it can produce troublesome symptoms. If left to run its full course, symptoms would usually settle down in time. It is possible that a serious flare could lead to other areas of skin becoming infected but it will usually quieten down on its own. During this time, however, the symptoms might be noticeably uncomfortable. Due to this most will want medication to settle symptoms as soon as possible.

Another note is that while symptoms are present you will be considered much more infectious.

How to prevent getting Herpes?

Herpes is remarkably difficult to prevent. It can pass on even if there are no symptoms (although the majority of infections will occur from symptomatic people). Practicing safe sex does not guarantee a reduction in risk because herpes can affect the whole genital region and not just the penis and vaginal area. This means any pelvic contact can also lead to transmission.

However, two methods that can help reduce the chance of infections are avoiding sex when symptoms are present or using long term medication to suppress the virus. It is important to note that these methods apply to the partner that is already infected and wish to reduce the chance of passing it to their uninfected partner.

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Feel free to come and speak to our friendly and approachable doctors about any issues you may be having. Remember we still cover all the GP stuff as well. 

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Tailored Approach

Tailored Approach

Here at Atlas Pacific Medical, our doctors are committed to providing quality healthcare tailored to each individual's unique needs.

Experienced Doctors

Our team of experienced physicians provide confidential testing and treatment services to ensure you are able to receive the care you need.
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Compassionate Service

Our mission is to provide the most supportive care possible, while helping you make informed decisions about your sexual health.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

When should I go for STD screening?

You should consider screening if you have symptoms of a possible STD, if you have had a recent risky exposure (unprotected sex with a casual partner), or both.

Can I get STDs from oral sex?

Yes, you can. The common misconception is that oral sex is not considered ‘real’ sex and therfore has no risk but the opposite is true. Often oral sex is performed without protection and this is why infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea can pass on through oral sex.

Can STDs be cured?

Thankfully the majority can be cured but there are some such as Herpes and HIV that can be treated but not cured. This is why prevention is better than cure and ensuring safe sex goes a long way to reduce your risks.

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