6 Best At Home Herpes Tests in 2025

Herpes simplex virus, or HSV, is known as a sexually transmitted infection that exists in two forms such as HSV-1 and HSV-2. While some people experience painful sores or flu-like symptoms, others may have no noticeable signs, making regular testing important for early detection and management.

Maintaining your sexual health requires regular STI screening, yet herpes often goes undiagnosed due to mild or absent symptoms. With an at-home herpes test, you can check for HSV-1 and HSV-2 privately and conveniently at home.

In this article, we have listed down the 6 best at-home herpes tests, including their features, accuracy, and ease of use. We’ll also discuss the different types of tests, their limitations, and the criteria we used to select the best options, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

6 Best At-Home Herpes Tests

1. LetsGetChecked Herpes Test

   

   The LetsGetChecked Herpes Test provides a discreet, at-home way to check for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) and Type 2 (HSV-2) antibodies. The makers state that you can collect the blood sample with a finger prick and send it to a CLIA-certified, CAP-accredited laboratory using the prepaid shipping label. LetsGetChecked Herpes Test provides secure, confidential results online within 2 to 5 days. This test can detect HSV antibodies, confirming past exposure even if you have never experienced symptoms.
   

   Pros

   • Comes with easy-to-follow sample collection instructions.
   • Uses professional laboratory analysis for reliability.

   Cons

   • Higher likelihood of false-positive results.
   • Antibodies take weeks to months to develop, risking false negatives.
   • Finger-prick blood collection can be difficult and lead to retesting.

2. 24×7 Lab HSV Kit

   

   The 24×7 Lab HSV Kit could detect active Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections and differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2. It lets you confirm whether or not you have herpes.

   As per the official website, you can collect a sample using a swab from the targeted area and send it to a laboratory for analysis. The test uses Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) testing, a method that detects HSV DNA with high sensitivity. Unlike blood tests that confirm past exposure, The 24×7 Lab HSV Kit allows you to identify the virus during an active infection.

   The 24×7 Lab HSV Kit includes a sterile swab, transport tube, and prepaid shipping label. It claims to provide results within 1 to 2 days.
   

   Pros

   • Uses highly sensitive DNA detection.
   • Ensures hygienic and secure sample handling.
   • Could be helpful for Recurrent Outbreaks.

   Cons

   • Easy access might lead to unnecessary repeated testing.
   • Testing during periods without active lesions may not detect the virus effectively.
   • Delays in shipping can postpone diagnosis and treatment.

3. myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test

   

   As per the official website, the myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test allows you to screen for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) with ease. HSV-2 is known as a common sexually transmitted infection that often presents with mild or no symptoms, making early detection essential for informed health decisions. The makers state that you will receive your results online within 2 to 5 days after myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test, ensuring a timely and private testing experience. If your results are positive, you can consult myLAB Box At-Home Herpes Test’s physician at no additional cost to discuss your diagnosis and explore the next steps.
   

   Pros

   • No need to wait for a physical report, as results are accessible online.
   • Offers free physician consultation.
   • Could help identify HSV-2 even if symptoms are mild or absent.

   Cons

   • Multiple reports of samples getting lost, leading to repeated testing.
   • Does not detect HSV-1, which also causes herpes.
   • If tested too early, results may be inaccurate due to insufficient antibody presence.

4. Verisana Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Test

   

   The Verisana HSV-2 Test helps you assess your HSV-2 status from home. You collect a small blood sample following the provided instructions by the makers and send it to Verisana’s CLIA-certified partner laboratory for analysis. Once processed, you will receive your results securely through an online portal, ensuring complete privacy. This test can help detect HSV-2 antibodies, confirming past exposure. As per the official website, Verisana upholds strict confidentiality with HIPAA-compliant data protection and secure sample disposal.
   

   Pros

   • You can purchase the test discreetly online.
   • The test allows for proactive sexual health monitoring.

   Cons

   • Verisana does not have counseling services post-testing.
   • The test only detects HSV-2 antibodies and does not test for other sexually transmitted infections.
   • The test may not differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2 if cross-reactivity occurs.

5. Basis Dx Herpes At-Home STD Test

   

   The Basis Dx Herpes At-Home STD Test arrives in discreet, unmarked packaging to ensure privacy and includes an instruction guide.

   It allows you to choose between two collection methods, including the traditional finger prick (lancet) method, which may cause slight discomfort, or the upgraded Pain-Free Comfort Collect Device, which utilizes micro-lancets for a gentler experience.

   As per the official website, after collecting your sample, you need to return it using the prepaid mailer. If you have concerns, Basis Dx also offers professional post-care support to help you interpret your results, discuss treatment options, and provide recommendations for managing the condition.
   

   Pros

   • You can select between two different blood collection options.
   • It could help eliminate waiting times at medical facilities.
   • Enables early diagnosis for better management.

   Cons

   • Delayed results may postpone treatment.
   • Risk of data breach when sharing information online.
   • Improper storage can compromise test accuracy.

6. STD Hero Herpes Test

   

   The STD Hero Herpes Test allows you to check for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) and Type 2 (HSV-2). The kit includes a sample tube, alcohol pads, a Tasso+ blood collection device, bandages, gauze pads, and step-by-step instructions for easy use.

   For the most accurate results, you are advised to collect your sample in the morning, stay well-hydrated beforehand, and return it the same day using the prepaid envelope provided. As per the official website, your sample is processed in a CLIA-certified laboratory, ensuring high accuracy and reliability.  Within two days of the lab receiving your sample, you can securely access the results online.
   

   Pros

   • Includes all necessary components for at-home blood collection.
   • Requires only a small blood sample for accurate results.
   • Provides a prepaid envelope for easy sample return.

   Cons

   • Without professional input, results can be misunderstood.
   • It is not permitted in NY due to state restrictions.

Types of Herpes Tests

1. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test

   The Polymerase Chain Reaction or a PCR test is known as a highly sensitive molecular technique that detects the genetic material (DNA) of the herpes simplex virus. To perform this test, a healthcare provider collects a sample from a lesion, blood, or other bodily fluids.

   The PCR test amplifies the viral DNA present in the sample, allowing for the detection of even minute quantities of the virus. This high sensitivity makes PCR particularly effective during active infections when the viral load is higher. PCR allows to differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2, providing valuable information for treatment planning.

2. Viral Culture

   Viral culture involves collecting a specimen from a fresh lesion and growing the virus in a controlled lab environment. The sample is placed onto specific cell cultures, where scientists observe for cytopathic effects indicating viral growth. While highly specific, which indicates that a positive result confirms HSV infection—its sensitivity is limited. The test is most effective when lesions are new, as timing plays a crucial role in its success.

3. Antigen Detection Tests

   Antigen detection tests, like direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) assays, identify HSV-specific proteins in cells collected from a lesion. During the test, the sample is treated with fluorescently labeled antibodies that bind to HSV antigens if present. When viewed under a fluorescence microscope, the presence of the virus is indicated by specific fluorescence patterns. These tests are advantageous due to their rapid turnaround time, often providing results within hours. However, their accuracy can vary, and they may not always distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2.

4. Antibody Tests (Serologic Tests)

   Serologic tests detect antibodies produced by immune system in response to HSV infection. These blood tests are particularly useful in situations where no active lesions are present, such as during asymptomatic periods or when assessing past exposure to the virus. There are two primary antibody tests, which include type-specific and non-type-specific.

   Type-specific serologic tests can differentiate between antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2, providing insight into the type of HSV infection. This distinction is clinically significant, as HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes.

   However, it’s important to note that while serologic tests can confirm exposure to the virus, they do not indicate the location of the infection (oral or genital) and may not reflect recent infections due to the time required for antibody development.

5. Cytologic Examination (Tzanck Smear)

   The Tzanck smear involves scraping the base of a lesion to obtain cells, which are then stained and examined under a microscope for characteristic changes induced by HSV infection. These changes include multinucleated giant cells and intranuclear inclusion bodies. However, the test lacks specificity, as similar cytologic changes can be seen in infections caused by other herpesviruses, such as varicella-zoster virus.

Limitations of At-home Herpes Test

1. Accuracy

   At-home herpes tests vary in accuracy, which can affect the reliability of your results. These tests typically detect herpes simplex virus (HSV) antibodies or, in some cases, the virus itself. However, several factors can compromise accuracy. You may receive a false positive, incorrectly indicating that you have herpes and causing unnecessary distress or stigma. False negatives are also common, especially if you test before your immune system produces detectable antibody levels or during periods without an active outbreak. Because the sensitivity of these tests differs, they are often less reliable than tests conducted in a medical setting, where healthcare professionals can use additional diagnostic methods to confirm your results.

2. Sample Collection

   Proper sample collection is crucial for accurate test results, but at-home herpes tests can make this process challenging. You must collect a sample from an active sore or use a swab to gather saliva or bodily fluids. If you do not follow the collection process correctly, the test’s reliability may be compromised.

   Issues such as insufficient viral material or contamination during collection can lead to inaccurate results. Some tests also provide unclear instructions, increasing the risk of user error.

3. Limited Testing Options

   At-home herpes tests primarily detect antibodies to the herpes simplex virus (HSV), indicating past exposure rather than an active infection. This means they cannot determine whether the virus is currently active in your body or if you are contagious.

   Since herpes can remain dormant for long periods without symptoms, a positive antibody test does not necessarily mean you are experiencing an outbreak. However, even without visible symptoms, the virus may still be shedding, making transmission possible. Without the ability to confirm active shedding, these tests provide limited insight into your current infection status.

   Most at-home tests do not distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2, the two primary strains of the virus. While HSV-1 is usually associated with the oral herpes (cold sores) and HSV-2 with genital herpes, cross-infection can occur, making it important to know which strain you have for proper management.

4. Lack of Professional Interpretation

   When you take the test, you are responsible for understanding the results on your own, which can be challenging. Test outcomes are not always clear-cut, and an inconclusive or ambiguous result may leave you uncertain about the next steps. This uncertainty can lead to confusion or anxiety, especially if the result is positive or unclear. Without expert guidance, determining whether to confirm the results with a doctor, begin treatment, or inform sexual partners becomes difficult.

5. No Treatment or Prescription

   At-home herpes tests can confirm exposure to the virus or indicate a possible active infection, but they do not provide a definitive diagnosis or treatment. If you test positive, you must consult a healthcare provider for proper medical guidance. These tests do not offer prescriptions or treatment options, which are essential for managing herpes effectively.

   Treatment may involve antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, which help reduce herpes symptoms, prevent outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission. Since at-home tests do not provide access to these medications, seeking professional medical care is necessary for proper management.

6. Privacy Concerns

   At-home herpes tests are marketed as private and discreet, but they still raise privacy concerns. In most cases, the sample you provide must be sent to a laboratory for analysis. This means that you are required to share personal information, including your name, address, and possibly health details, depending on how the test is structured.

   Although laboratories take steps to protect patient privacy, there is still a potential risk of data breaches or mishandling of sensitive information. If the company providing the at-home test is not reputable or does not follow strict privacy protocols, your personal health information could be exposed.

   It’s important to research the company you are using to ensure they follow proper security standards for handling your data and samples. If you need to share the results with your healthcare provider or others, you may need to disclose that you’ve taken an at-home test, which could still carry some stigma, depending on the context.

7. Limited Follow-up

   At-home herpes tests often lack follow-up support. If you test positive, you might have questions about how to manage the condition or what steps to take next, but an at-home test provides no immediate professional support to guide you through these decisions.

   Without follow-up care, it can be difficult to know how to address the emotional and physical aspects of living with herpes. At-home tests do not provide ongoing support or follow-up consultations, which is why it’s always recommended to seek professional healthcare after testing positive for herpes to ensure you receive the necessary support.

How Did We Select The Best At Home Herpes Test For You?

1. Brand Reputation

   LetsGetChecked ranks as the most reputable option for at-home herpes testing. Founded in 2015, it has built a strong track record through strategic expansions and consistently positive customer feedback. With a 4.6 Trustpilot rating from over 18,000 reviews, it demonstrates reliability, accuracy, and customer satisfaction, making it the most trusted choice.

   myLAB Box follows but falls short in customer trust, holding a 2.5 Trustpilot rating from 356 reviews. The remaining brands, including 24×7 Lab, Verisana, Basis Dx, and STD Hero, lack substantial brand history and verified customer feedback. Without Trustpilot reviews or a well-documented reputation, their credibility remains uncertain, requiring careful consideration before purchase.

2. Value For Money

   Verisana offers the best value at $69 with free shipping, though it only tests for HSV-2. 24×7 Lab follows at $79.95, covering both HSV-1 & HSV-2, but details on additional support are unclear. Basis Dx provides flexibility at $79 for Lancet Fingerstick, while its $108 Comfort Collect option adds convenience at a higher cost.

   myLAB Box is priced at $89, but free shipping only applies to orders over $150, making it less cost-effective unless bundled. STD Hero costs $109, offering reliability but no standout features to justify the price. LetsGetChecked, the most expensive at $119, includes professional support but is less competitive in value compared to other alternatives.

FAQs

1. Can an at-home test distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
   Yes. Most high-quality at-home tests can differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2 using type-specific antibody or PCR testing, providing more detailed insights into your infection status.
2. Can at-home herpes tests detect a recent infection?
   Yes. PCR-based herpes tests can detect an active infection quickly, while antibody tests may take weeks to detect the virus since antibodies take time to develop after exposure.
3. Can I use an at-home test if I don’t have symptoms?
   Yes, at-home antibody tests can check for past exposure to HSV even if you have no symptoms, while PCR tests are more effective for detecting active infections.

Conclusion

At-home herpes testing provides a private option for screening for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) using diagnostic methods. These tests help you manage your sexual health with quick results, typically within 24 to 72 hours.

While at-home herpes tests can be a helpful screening tool, they come with limitations. Their accuracy may be compromised, especially during the early stages of infection or if proper sample collection is not followed. False negatives can occur, and the tests primarily detect past exposure rather than confirming an active infection, which means they cannot definitively confirm contagiousness.

At-home herpes tests can serve as an initial step in understanding your herpes status, but they should be used with caution. However, remember that follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential for confirmation and appropriate medical care.