Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Genital herpes testing

Who should get tested for genital herpes?

If you or your partner is worried that you may have genital herpes, see a doctor or visit your nearest sexual health service straight away.

If you are pregnant and find out you have a genital herpes infection, tell your midwife as soon as possible.

Find your nearest sexual health service

Where to get a genital herpes test

You can visit your local GP surgery for genital herpes testing, or a sexual health service (for example a family planning or GUM clinic).

These are specialist clinics that deal with sexually transmitted infections, are completely confidential, and you and your partner can ‘self-refer’ (that means you can go along without having to see your GP first).

Find your nearest sexual health service

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What's involved in testing for genital herpes?

Getting tested for genital herpes is simple and straightforward.

If there are symptoms present (blisters, sores and ulcers), the doctor or nurse may be able to make a diagnosis straight away.

If you have visible blisters, the doctor or nurse may take a swab for testing, or take a blood or urine sample.

A swab looks a bit like a cotton bud and collecting a sample only takes a few minutes. It is not painful, although it may be a little uncomfortable for a moment.

You may also be offered tests for other sexually transmitted infections

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How do I tell my partner if I test positive for genital herpes?

Your partner could already have herpes but not know it - and may have got this from a previous partner. Three-quarters of the people with the herpes virus have so mild an infection that they do not realise they have it.

Some people can feel upset, angry, frightened or embarrassed about discussing sexually transmitted infections with their current or former partner(s).

If you are diagnosed with genital herpes, it is not usually recommended your partner has a check-up, unless they have symptoms themselves. The doctor or nurse will talk to you about who you may need to tell and how you can do it.

Read more about breaking bad news of sexually transmitted infections

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