Genital herpes swab test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2. It spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex and skin-to-skin contact, even when no sores are visible. A first episode is often the most uncomfortable, sometimes with tingling, painful blisters, pain when passing urine and a flu-like feeling. Later outbreaks are usually milder and shorter.

The swab is taken from an active sore on the vulva, vagina, penis or surrounding skin, and the laboratory looks for the virus itself. Testing a sore directly is the most reliable way to confirm herpes, because blisters and ulcers in this area can also be caused by thrush, friction, skin conditions or other infections.

The price includes the swab taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. Every appointment is private, confidential and non-judgemental.

Who it is for

• You have new painful blisters, sores or ulcers on or around your genitals.
• You felt tingling or burning in the area followed by sores.
• You have recurring genital sores and want to confirm the cause.
• Your partner has been diagnosed with herpes and you have symptoms.
• You are pregnant and have genital sores, in which case please also tell your midwife promptly.

Understanding your result

A positive result confirms that herpes simplex virus was present in the sore. It does not tell you when you were infected, because a first outbreak can appear months or years after the virus was picked up, so it is not proof that a current partner passed it on. A negative result means the virus was not detected, which can happen when a sore is already healing. Your practitioner will explain the result and help you decide on next steps. It is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Antiviral medicine from a GP or sexual health clinic can shorten an outbreak and works best when started early, so do not delay seeking treatment while you wait to be tested.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. Book as soon as sores appear, ideally while they are blistered or open. Avoid applying creams or antiseptic washes to the area on the day. If you have your period, let us know when you book so we can advise on timing. Your practitioner will explain how the swab is collected.

Herpes is one of several infections worth considering after a new partner, and our STI tests check for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV and more. See every blood test and price in Chiswick to compare options.

Questions

How much is a genital herpes swab in Chiswick?

The Herpes Swab (genital) costs £69 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. It covers the swab, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report if requested.

When is the best time to take the swab?

Early in an outbreak, when sores are fresh and contain the most virus. Once a sore has crusted over, the swab is more likely to miss the virus.

Can I have herpes without symptoms?

Yes. Many people never notice an outbreak, or mistake mild symptoms for something else. Without a sore there is nothing to swab, so a herpes antibody blood test may be discussed instead.

Will I keep getting outbreaks?

Some people have occasional recurrences and others very few. Outbreaks often become less frequent over time, and a GP or sexual health clinic can discuss suppressive treatment if they are frequent.